Ali Abdelaziz Champions Justin Gaethje as Next Challenger for Islam Makhachev’s Lightweight Title

In a recent turn of events within the UFC’s lightweight division, Ali Abdelaziz, the manager of reigning champion Islam Makhachev, has vocalized his preference for Justin Gaethje as the next title challenger. Makhachev, originally scheduled to defend his title against former champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 294, faced a setback when Oliveira withdrew due to an injury. Instead, Makhachev went on to dominate featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski in a rematch, securing a stunning first-round victory with a head kick.

Despite expectations of Oliveira earning a rematch, UFC’s recent booking of Oliveira against rising talent Arman Tsarukyan has left the top of the lightweight division without a clear next opponent for Makhachev. Abdelaziz asserts that Gaethje, a two-time contender for the undisputed lightweight title, deserves a third shot at UFC gold.

“Justin Gaethje is a phenomenal fighter, one of the most entertaining we’ve seen. He holds the BMF title now… He fought against Khabib, now he fights Khabib’s successor, and he deserves it,” said Abdelaziz in an interview with ESPN. He emphasized Gaethje’s hard-earned position, forged through “sweat, blood, and tears in the cage.”

Makhachev, open to facing any challenger in the division, has expressed his interest in facing Gaethje. His only condition is to have a fight scheduled before the commencement of the Muslim fasting month, Ramadan, on March 9.