Islam Makhachev isn’t typically known for engaging in social media wars. Nonetheless, he raised eyebrows when he hit back after MMA veteran Chael Sonnen seemed to misconstrue his remark about ‘cowards’. The Dagestani fighter faulted Sonnen for sensationalizing matters and labeled him a mediocre athlete. Soon after, however, the ex-UFC star rectified the misinterpretation concerning Makhachev’s ‘coward’ comment.
Sonnen suggested Makhachev was deliberately steering clear of a match with Ilia Topuria. He pointed out that the Dagestani fighter gave up his lightweight title, moving up a weight class with sights set on acquiring a second championship belt. This controversy was what initially sparked Makhachev’s indignation, strongly leading him to speak out.
Eventually, Sonnen made sure to correct the mistake that triggered Makhachev’s reaction. In a statement, he said, ‘I certainly did not label him a coward — but I ought to stand my ground, assuming he presumes I did. Take note, he is venturing into my territory. The quote attributed to me by a well-known site was incorrect. Islam surmised I called him a coward, addressing the allegation that I named him so, which was never the case.’
What Sonnen inferred was, if Makhachev deems him as having called him a coward and issued a response, then Sonnen is obligated to respond in defense. He pointed out that navigating within his sphere may lead to complicated situations, alluding to the proverb about the impracticality of wrestling with a pig: neither party comes out clean, however, the pig relishes the ordeal. Despite this misunderstanding, Sonnen has confirmed that they have already hashed out the matter.
The general excitement concerning a prospective duel between Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev was palpable. To most fans and fellow fighters, this was seen as a significant face-off which unfortunately didn’t materialize. Topuria made the shift to lightweight in pursuit of the championship, while, on the contrary, Makhachev left his belt behind and moved to the welterweight category.
Renato Moicano, a former adversary who faced defeat at Makhachev’s hands during the UFC 311 event, opines that Topuria would have been victorious had he taken on Makhachev in the 155-pound weight category. He said, ‘I believe Ilia Topuria holds the advantage over Islam Makhachev. His grappling technique coupled with the precision in his boxing and the way he eludes hits… I have reason to expect he would inflict considerable difficulties on Islam Makhachev.’
In the wake of Makhachev’s transition to welterweight, a section of fans suggested he was avoiding a potential face-off with Topuria. Still, the likelihood of their paths crossing in the future remains. Assuming Topuria secures the lightweight championship, we could possibly see Makhachev reinstating himself in the 155 category for a thrilling encounter against Spain’s champion.