Dana White thwarts Charles do Bronx's plans and 'makes a decision' regarding the future of the lightweight division

Charles of the Bronx is a highlight of the lightweights. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter/UFC Turkiye

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The injury suffered by Islam makhachev, which prevented the champion from scheduling the next defense of his lightweight belt (up to 70,3 kg) for UFC 308, in Abu Dhabi, lit a flame of hope in Brazilian fans for a possible creation of an interim belt in the category, which could involve Charles of the Bronx. Last Monday (09), however, Dana White made a point of throwing a bucket of cold water on such plans.

In an interview with reporter Manouk Akopyan, Dana White denied any possibility of creating an interim lightweight belt and stated that he already has plans for the return of Islam makhachev.

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“Islam (Makhachev) has fought so many times and is always willing to show up and accept fights, so there will be no interim title. When he is ready, we will make the fight. We have plans and we are thinking at this moment about when he could fight,” assured the president.

Furthermore, Dana White made a point of confirming Arman Tsarukyan as the Russian's next challenger. The Armenian is coming off a victory over Charles of the Bronx No. UFC 300, in April this year.

“He (Tsarukyan) is the number 1 contender. I don’t know when it will happen, but we are working on it. I am focused on the Sphere,” concluded Dana White.