The lightweight division of the UFC has been in a state of fervor since Islam Makhachev claimed the title and demonstrated his grappling supremacy in recent bouts. Most recently, Makhachev showcased his prowess by submitting Renato Moicano with palpable ease at UFC 311, further solidifying his dominance. However, the question looms: who has the potential to disrupt his reign? Beneil Dariush, a seasoned competitor in the lightweight category, offers an intriguing insight into a fighter who could present a legitimate challenge to Makhachev.
With an impressive record of 27 wins and just one loss, Makhachev has become a force in the octagon, rattling off victories against several of the division’s elite, including four of the current top six ranked fighters. His victory over Moicano not only retained his title but demonstrated his ability to overcome adversity, particularly given that he was originally set to face Arman Tsarukyan, who withdrew due to injury. This adaptability is crucial for any champion, but Makhachev’s striking and wrestling credentials elevate him to a level that poses a challenge to any potential contender.
While discussing potential challengers, Dariush highlighted Max Holloway as a compelling adversary for Makhachev. Holloway’s fight style—characterized by relentless cardio, volume striking, and elusive mobility—could introduce a different dynamic in the octagon. Dariush pointed out that whereas Makhachev excels in grappling, Holloway’s striking prowess and stamina may create openings that could disrupt Makhachev’s game plan.
Dariush recalls Holloway’s prior match against Merab Dvalishvili, noting his incredible endurance that seemingly never waned, even in the later rounds—a vital asset in combating a grappling-centric opponent like Makhachev. Holloway’s previous return to the lightweight division, where he delivered a striking clinic against Justin Gaethje, further reinforced this view. Although Holloway’s transition back to featherweight ended in a tough knockout loss to Ilia Topuria, his potential in the lightweight class remains intact.
It’s important to consider Beneil Dariush’s own trajectory in the lightweight division as he seeks to reclaim his momentum amidst a two-fight losing streak. Having not yet faced Makhachev, his aspirations for a title shot were just nearly thwarted when Tsarukyan stepped back from their scheduled matchup at UFC 311. The promotion’s decision to replace Tsarukyan with Moicano left Dariush in a precarious position, confined to the sidelines and struggling to carve out his path back to contention.
The roadmap for the UFC’s lightweight division appears increasingly congested, especially with champions like Makhachev establishing themselves firmly and prospects like Holloway jumping in and out of weight classes. For each fighter, the quest for a title shot is fraught with unpredictability, injuries, and shifting matchups. The complexity of this ecosystem, coupled with the talents of fighters like Makhachev and Holloway, ensures that the battle for supremacy will continue to evolve.
As the landscape of the lightweight division adapts with new contenders and promotional decisions, fans and fighters alike will eagerly await the next chapter in this thrilling saga.