Islam Makhachev just did what he does the best! UFC Vegas 49 is finally on the books and Islam just dominated Bobby Green to potentially secure the next title shot. In the post-fight interview with Michael Bisping, he called for the title fight next.
Coming into this fight, Islam Makhachev was a massive favourite to win today’s main event. However, he was going up against a very game opponent in Bobby Green who just stepped in at the last possible minute to replace Beneil Dariush. Some wondered whether there was a potential upset on the cards or not. But Makhachev cleared all those doubts with his performance today.
One of the best in the world ????
— UFC (@ufc) February 27, 2022
[ @MakhachevMMA | #UFCVegas49 ] pic.twitter.com/rxBpfYJzVq
The fight lasted only a mere 3 minutes and 23 seconds. The Khabib Nurmagomedov protégé kept on backing Green up the entire time. Although the 35-year old evaded the first few takedown attempts, Islam finally got the fight down on the mats and that marked the beginning of the end for his opponent. After engaging in brief grappling exchanges, Makhachev was able to mount Green and secure a TKO win with some vicious ground and pound.
Islam Makhachev wants the title shot after his TKO win over Bobby Green
Islam Makhachev has successfully extended his winning streak to 10 matches. No other fighter at the top level of this weight division has the same momentum. Before today’s fight, most pundits expected Makhachev to get a championship fight if he got the win. Not only did manage the victory, but he also steamrolled Bobby Green without taking any damage in return. During his interview in the Octagon, the 30-year old said,
“I feel good. First of all, thank God for this performance. Thank you, everyone. I (am) very happy. I (trained) very hard for this fight. I (am) waiting for Beneil. I think he (is) gonna fix his problem very soon and we (are) gonna meet him again.”
“I just want a title fight. No more, I’m tired of all these things. I need title fight, I’m ready, I’m here always ready, always training hard. Just tell me when and where? That’s it. Beneil (is) one of the best in the world, I know. I’m gonna take this belt and wait for him there.”
UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira will be in action next at UFC 274. He will face Justin Gaethje in an attempt to defend his belt for the second time. Makhachev expressed his interest in fighting Oliveira earlier and called him a worthy opponent. It will be interesting to see whether Islam will face ‘Do Bronx’ or Justin Gaethje for the title next.