UFC legend Daniel Cormier thinks the next man to challenge Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title should be none other than Justin Gaethje — and he’s not shy about saying why.
On his podcast Funky and the Champ with Ben Askren, Cormier made a strong case for Gaethje, despite a growing push from fans and pundits for Ilia Topuria to get his shot.
Why Gaethje Could Be Next for Makhachev
Islam Makhachev (27-1) has been untouchable lately. After dismantling Renato Moicano in a short-notice title defense at UFC 311, he’s looking ahead to his next challenger. While many expect rising star Ilia Topuria to get the nod, Cormier has another name in mind.
“If I’m Team Makhachev, I’m asking for Justin Gaethje,” Cormier said.
“He’s a big name, fans love him, and it’s a high-stakes matchup.”
Gaethje (26-5) may have stumbled with a knockout loss to Max Holloway at UFC 300, but he bounced back with a solid win over Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313. Cormier believes that’s enough to put him right back in the title mix.
Askren Backs Topuria Instead
Co-host Ben Askren doesn’t see it that way. He argues that Topuria deserves the title shot, especially after his dominant win over Holloway — the same fighter who recently knocked out Gaethje.
“Topuria just beat Holloway impressively,” Askren said.
“That makes his case stronger than Gaethje’s, no doubt.”
Featherweight Factor Sparks Debate
Cormier pushed back, saying Makhachev may not want another fight against a former featherweight like Topuria, especially after already facing both Holloway and Volkanovski.
But Askren wasn’t having it.
“Those guys fought at lightweight and proved they belonged. You can’t hold their past weight class against them.”
Name vs Momentum: Who Has the Edge?
So who really deserves the shot?
- Gaethje: Big name, fan-favorite, former interim champ, known for wars inside the cage.
- Topuria: Undefeated, riding high on momentum, and fresh off a big win.
If the UFC wants a blockbuster headliner, Gaethje makes sense. But if performance is the top priority, Topuria might be the smarter pick.
What’s Next for Makhachev?
The UFC hasn’t confirmed Makhachev’s next opponent yet, but both Gaethje and Topuria are clearly in the running.
And if Cormier’s prediction comes true, fans might soon be treated to a high-voltage clash between the Dagestani champ and the always-explosive Gaethje.
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