Islam Makhachev said he would relish fighting for a UFC title in Abu Dhabi after sealing in the capital on Saturday night the most notable victory of his career thus far. The fast-rising lightweight contender, 30, defeated Dan Hooker at UFC , dispatching the dangerous New Zealander in emphatic fashion in the first round at Etihad Arena. Already much-vaunted, with the triumph the Dagestan native only solidified his credentials for a championship bout. And I promise all the arena is going to be full, and all the arena is going to be my people.
A teammate and close friend of former champion Khabib Nurmagomedov β his compatriot was in his corner on Saturday β Makhachev conceded in the build-up to the Hooker clash that he needed a statement victory to underline that he should next contest the title. The current belt-holder, Charles Oliveira, defends his crown in December against No 1-ranked contender Dustin Poirier. Hooker is tough. He beat a lot of wrestling, grappling guys too. He beat Gilbert Burns; many, many guys. In dominating Nasrat Haqparast in Las Vegas last month, he lifted his pro record to Why not?
I am ready, too. I have nine fights now. Makhachev said the only pressure he felt coming into the fight was from watching from his hotel as teammates Tagir Ulanbekov and Zubaira Tukhugov competed earlier on the card.
Makhachev appeared at the post-fight media briefing in shirt and jeans, claiming he did not even need to take a shower, such was his swift work. Because I have nine-fight win streak. Who in my division has this? Just the champion.
I have to wake up my division. I have to change some things. All guys in top 5, they already fight for the title. Chandler, [Justin] Gaethje. They have to give me a chance; Dana has to give me a chance. Many things are going to change in next couple months. John McAuley. Updated: October 31, , PM. Editor's picks. AI-powered honey-testing laboratory aims to set quality standards Technology.
