Number five-ranked UFC lightweight Islam Makhachev continues to inch his way into UFC title contention. On Saturday at UFC 267, the 30-year-old Dagestani competitor extended his win streak to nine by defeating fellow top-ten contender Dan Hooker via first-round submission.
Naturally, everyone at Makhachev’s stateside home gym at the American Kickboxing Academy was in a celebratory mood. Former double-champ and UFC commentator Daniel Cormier was one of those who vocalized his excitement towards his longtime training partner.
Give @MAKHACHEVMMA the title fight! I don’t even need to see who wins next week. This dude just killed it. Khabib said this was his MSG moment and boy did he not deliver. He’s gonna be the champ.
— Daniel Cormier (@dc_mma) October 30, 2021
But that call for a title shot for Makhachev didn’t sit well with number-two ranked 155-pound contender Justin Gaethje, who later fired back.
Suck it harder @dc_mma
— Justin Gaethje (@Justin_Gaethje) October 30, 2021
The exchange carried on for a bit more until Cormier ultimately pacified the conversation.
You brought my name up. It wasn’t going to come out of anybody’s mouth.
— Justin Gaethje (@Justin_Gaethje) October 30, 2021
I literally asked why he should get title shot over you? Because he has to convince he deserves to jump you. Hell I thought you should have been in the fight with Charles. Have said it publicly. Calm down highlight , you’re my favorite fighter.
— Daniel Cormier (@dc_mma) October 30, 2021
“The Highlight” may get his second crack at UFC gold if he gets through another top-tier contender in Michael Chandler this Saturday at UFC 268. The bout takes place at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
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