Gilbert Durinho surprises by choosing the toughest opponent for Islam Makhachev; find out why.

Durinho focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

While Islam Makhachev has no opponent or confirmed date to return to the world's most famous octagon, several relevant names in the sport continue to speculate who would represent the toughest challenge for the current welterweight champion (up to 77,1 kg). In this context, Gilbert Durinho , who faces Mike Malott this Saturday (18) at UFC Winnipeg, spoke publicly about the future of the category in an interview with the US website 'MMA Fighting' this Thursday (16).

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According to the Brazilian, even though Morales presents a challenge due to his knockout power and physical strength, Makhachev could possibly defeat him after some time. On the other hand, the situation could be different against Ian Garry and Kamaru Usman , his former opponent.

“Morales is huge, but I believe that eventually Islam will be able to control him, tire him out, and finish him off. I think Ian Garry and Kamaru Usman are very difficult fights for Islam Makhachev and not easy at all,” he stated.

Gilbert Burns says Kamaru Usman and Ian Garry are much tougher fights for Islam Makhachev than Michael Morales

"Morales is huge, but I do eventually believe Islam will be able to control him, make him tired, and get a late finish. I think Ian Garry and Kamaru Usman are very… pic.twitter.com/nlLyyUrafh

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) April 16, 2026

According to Dana White, Makhachev is expected to defend his title for the first time in August of this year. Recently, the UFC officially announced via its social media that it will hold UFC 330 in Philadelphia on the 15th of the month.

Gilbert Burns has already fought for the UFC belt.

K. Usman (left) greets G. Burns (right) after his victory at UFC 258. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Despite not being in good form right now, Durinho did manage to fight for the heavyweight title against Kamaru Usman in February 2021. Even with a good start, he ended up being knocked out by the Nigerian Nightmare at the beginning of the third round. Besides competing for the title against the former champion, the Brazilian also trained with him for years at the former Blackzillians.

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