Mahacheva Expresses Skepticism Over the Prospect of a Rematch With Olivey
Title Shake-Up in the UFC Lightweight Division
The UFC lightweight division is buzzing with anticipation following a series of upcoming fights that could reshape its landscape.
Beneil Dariush's Title Push
Currently ranked No.4, Beneil Dariush is poised to make a strong bid for the vacant or next lightweight title. His consistent performances and rising stock make him a formidable contender for the championship in the near future, though official matchups and title shots are yet to be confirmed.
Mendes' Preference for Makhachev's Next Opponent
Javier Mendes, coach of UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, has expressed a strategic approach to choosing Makhachev's next opponent. Mendes is cautious about selecting the right matchup to optimally position Makhachev in the welterweight division after vacating lightweight. This strategic matchmaking aims to extend Makhachev's dominance without risking an early upset.
Lightweight Division Landscape
With Makhachev's move to welterweight, the lightweight division has opened up, elevating contenders like Dariush, Ilia Topuria, Charles Oliveira, and others to prominence. The division's marquee fight in late 2025 is Makhachev vs. Jack Della Maddalena in November at Madison Square Garden, deemed Makhachev's toughest opponent yet.
Upcoming Fights and Their Implications
At UFC 289 on June 10 in Vancouver, Beneil Dariush is set to face Charles Oliveira, currently ranked No.1. If Dariush emerges victorious, he may become the No.1 contender for Makhachev's title, depending on the outcome of Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje's fight at UFC 291 on July 29 in Salt Lake City.
Meanwhile, Poirier and Gaethje are set to square off, with the winner potentially earning a shot at the UFC lightweight title. However, if Dariush loses at UFC 289, he will not be the No.1 contender for Makhachev's title.
Javier Mendes has shared his thoughts on a potential opponent for Makhachev's second title defense. He believes that if Charles Oliveira defeats Dariush, Oliveira will not get a title rematch with Makhachev, but may need another fight to secure a title shot. Mendes has also expressed his desire for Dariush to win at UFC 289.
Intriguingly, Mendes has suggested that a fight between Oliveira and Makhachev may not be based on rankings or performance, but on who brings in more money according to UFC's algorithm. Mendes also doubts that such a fight will occur, even if Oliveira wins at UFC 289.
The upcoming fights promise to add excitement and clarity to the UFC lightweight division, with Dariush emerging as a strong contender for the title. The division's landscape remains competitive, but the absence of Makhachev leaves a gap that Dariush and others may fill soon.
Beneil Dariush's Potential in Mixed-Martial-ArtsIf Beneil Dariush wins at UFC 289, he may become a strong contender for the UFC lightweight title, showcasing his skills in mixed-martial-arts.
Strategic Matchmaking in Makhachev's CareerJavier Mendes, coach of former UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, is being strategic in choosing Makhachev's next opponent, aiming to maintain his dominance in mixed-martial-arts while avoiding potential early upsets.
