Matt Brown Contends Islam Makhachev’s UFC 322 Win Doesn’t Seal All-Time Great Status

Islam Makhachev is set to face Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight title at UFC 322. This championship fight occurs in a landscape where Makhachev aims to become the 11th fighter in UFC history to secure titles in two different divisions.

Islam Makhachev’s Career Overview

Currently, Makhachev boasts an impressive 15-fight winning streak. He has already established himself as one of the elite pound-for-pound fighters and holds the record for the most consecutive title defenses at lightweight, with four.

Expert Opinions on Makhachev’s Legacy

UFC veteran Matt Brown shared insights on Makhachev’s standing in MMA. While he regards Makhachev as the greatest lightweight of all time, he argues that winning the welterweight title won’t automatically elevate him to GOAT status.

• “He’s the greatest lightweight of all-time,” Brown stated, emphasizing Makhachev’s established legacy.
• He questions what capturing welterweight gold would truly mean for Makhachev in the context of all-time greatness.

Comparative Legends in MMA

Matt Brown pointed out notable records held by other MMA greats:

• Jon Jones has a record 16 title fight victories.
• Georges St-Pierre defended his welterweight title nine times before becoming a two-division champion.
• Anderson Silva maintained 10 consecutive title defenses, a record broken by Demetrious Johnson with 11.

Challenges Ahead for Makhachev

Brown emphasizes that Makhachev must maintain a winning streak to enter the conversation among MMA’s all-time greats. He noted that Makhachev’s greatest victories occurred prior to becoming champion, which leaves room for growth in terms of his title defenses.

“He has a serious murderer’s row ahead of him,” Brown mentioned, highlighting tough competitors like Shavkat Rakhmonov and Sean Brady. Overcoming these challenges would be essential for Makhachev’s legacy.

The Path to GOAT Status

While Makhachev has the opportunity to establish further credentials at welterweight, Brown cautions that just becoming a two-division champion doesn’t define greatness. He argued that for Makhachev to substantiate his status:

• He needs to execute a four-fight winning streak at welterweight.
• Longevity and continued dominance across weight classes are crucial.

If Makhachev can achieve this feat, it would shift the narrative surrounding his legacy in the sport. “Islam’s got some work to do,” Brown concluded, underscoring that Makhachev’s journey in the UFC is far from over.

The fight against Jack Della Maddalena will be pivotal, as it presents a significant test for Makhachev’s aspirations in the UFC. Fans eagerly await the outcome.