Islam makhachev is the UFC lightweight champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC India
the decision of Islam makhachev to leave the lightweight title (up to 70,3 kg.) vacant towards a belt dispute against Jack Della Maddalena in the upper category has generated varied opinions among MMA personalities. While for some the increase in weight is something understandable and even admirable, for others it is a reason for criticism. Chael Sonnen for example, he went further and classified the attitude as a cowardly measure.
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“Islam did not climb out of courage. He climbed on the condition that he would not face Belal Muhammad |. He went to a division where he is clearly not going to face one of the best. It is not a sign of courage, but of cowardice. You have an undefeated world champion and number one in the rankings who is chasing you (Topuria). You are so interested in getting rid of this guy that you leave your belt vacant,” said Sonnen, in the latest edition of the program 'Good Guy/Bad Guy', this Monday (19).
Chael Sonnen says Islam makhachev moving up to 170 is a 'sign of cowardice'
“You have an undefeated, #1 ranked world champion who's chasing you down…
You are so interested in getting away from this guy, that you leave your belt.”
@spnmma #UFCpic.twitter.com/2KIHEyBC4u
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) May 19, 2025
Makhachev is the longest-reigning lightweight champion in history
At 33 years old, Islam won the title of the UFC's most populous division in 2022, by submitting Charles of the Bronx. Since then, the Russian has defended the belt four times, more than anyone in the history of the category. In addition, since the end of 2023 he has occupied the first place in the Ultimate pound-for-pound ranking.
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