(SEE TOO: Sean Shelby’s Shoes: What’s Next for Dustin Poirier After UFC 302 Title Loss?)
Islam Makhachev maintained his position as leader of the lightweight division on Saturday, when he defended his title against Dustin Poirier in the UFC 302 main attraction.
Makhachev (26-1 MMA, 15-1 UFC) tied the all-time divisional title defense record with a fifth-round submission over Poirier (30-9 MMA, 22-8 UFC) at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ, extending his winning streak to 14 fights inside the octagon.
After the win, there appear to be two paths for Makhachev: go all-in on moving up to welterweight to challenge the winner of Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad at UFC 304, or try to take sole possession of the 155-pound title defense record. . with a rematch against Arman Tsarukyan.
What does the future hold for Makhachev? Watch the video above for thoughts and analysis on his future after UFC 302.
For more information on the card, visit the MMA Junkie events hub to UFC 302.
