Islam Makhachev will fight Bobby Green instead of Beneil Dariush on February 26. Dariush pulled out of the contest earlier today with a leg injury. As per ESPN, Green has given his nod to fight in just 10 days’ notice. However, the fight will not take place within the lightweight limits of 156 lbs.
According to the report, the contest will now take place at a catch-weight of 160 lbs. Which is 4 pounds more than the weight limit of non-title lightweight bouts. However, the report does not mention why the bout is not being fought within the weight class. A reason for it may be the time frame of the event.
Per sources, Bobby Green (@BobbyKGreen) vs. Islam Makhachev (@MAKHACHEVMMA) will be contested at 160 pound catchweight. Main event, Feb. 26. Five rounds.
— Brett Okamoto (@bokamotoESPN) February 17, 2022
Bobby Green is fresh off a massive victory against a lightweight prospect Nasrat Haqparast on the main card of UFC 271. The event was just a mere 4 days ago. As a result, cutting the weight twice within two weeks may have taken a toll on the 35-year old’s body. Hence, bumping the fight to 160 lbs may be a sensible move from the UFC.
Islam Makhachev vs Bobby Green: who wins?
Islam Makhachev has a record of 21-1-0. Whereas Bobby Green’s career record stands at 29-12-1. Green is a veteran of the sport and this will be the first UFC card in his resume as the main event. He will look to seize the opportunity and extend the late flourish in his career. But will he? Let’s find out.
Islam Makhachev will be a massive odds-on favourite to win the fight. The 30-year old is relatively fresh and he is on a path to potential superstar status. His grappling is perhaps the best in the entire lightweight division. This is not surprising considering his alliance with Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Looks like we have ourselves a new main event for Feb. 26 ???? (via @bokamotoESPN) pic.twitter.com/jrR5HcfnUv
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) February 17, 2022
Although the California native does have a background in amateur wrestling, he is yet to fight someone of the calibre of Islam Makhachev. The best way for him to emerge victorious in this contest is through striking. Green’s striking is formidable. However, will be able to stuff the takedown attempts from Makhachev?
Islam is good at securing both single and double leg takedowns. His physical strength is a major factor in his grappling. As a result, it will be of utmost priority for Bobby to remain on his feet. If Makhachev does secure the takedown, it will be a short night for the underdog.
