With rumors circulating about the potential creation of a new 165-pound division in the UFC, several fighters have come to mind who could greatly benefit from such a weight class. From former featherweight champion Conor McGregor to perennial welterweight contender Colby Covington, there are a number of athletes who might find their ideal home at 165 pounds.
Justin Gaethje has announced that he will take a six-month break from sparring after being knocked out by Max Holloway at UFC 300. Gaethje acknowledges that repeated concussions could impact his health and wants to prioritize his well-being. Despite the setback, he remains hopeful about potentially facing the winner of the upcoming title fight between Islam Makhachev and Dustin Poirier.
UFC lightweight Dustin Poirier will face Islam Makhachev at UFC 302 in his third attempt to capture the 155-pound title. Poirier has previously fallen short against Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira, but remains one of the most talented fighters in the division. Makhachev is a highly regarded wrestler and grappler, making him a formidable opponent for Poirier. However, Poirier may have improved his takedown defense and ground game since his loss to Nurmagomedov in 2014.
UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev has set his sights on a new dream fight and revealed his game plan for his upcoming title defense against Dustin Poirier. Makhachev, who previously aspired to retire Tony Ferguson, now aims to move up to welterweight and challenge Leon Edwards for the 170lbs gold. The 32-year-old athlete, who has established himself as the king of lightweight, has expressed his desire to become a two-division champion, following the footsteps of fighters like Sean O’Malley and Alex Pereira. Makhachev’s game plan against Poirier involves maintaining distance and avoiding the guillotine choke, a move that Poirier is both known for and has fallen victim to in the past.
