Makhachev hopes to compete against Alexander Volkanovski to become the top pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC after defeating Charles Oliveira.
Islam Makhachev's rule may not last forever, but with the domination he displayed at UFC 280, it is safe to assume that he has the ability to rise to the top of Dana White's organization.
Recently, Makhachev defeated Charles Oliveira, demonstrating his skill.
Despite the fact that the lightweight championship was uncontested, Makhachev outclassed the de facto champion.
Oliveira perhaps skimped on his defense this time, which cost him because he faced a persistent foe who won.
At age 31, Makhachev attained fame. Even though he had been developing his own career for some time, Khabib's retirement made him a peripheral figure.
Following the match, Makhachev gave the championship to his coaches, the Nurmagomedovs.
He claimed in a post-fight interview that "They made me."
Khabib patiently guided his compatriot to the top after honing him to perfection.
This might be the start of the next champion's illustrious era.
The new target
Alexander Volkanovski and Makhachev have already issued challenges to one another, despite Oliveira's demands for a relatively speedy rematch, which don't appear likely to materialize until the Brazilian wins a few fights.
Following the Oliveira fight, this challenge was issued inside the cage, and both competitors made it plain they are prepared to square off in front of the lightweight audience at UFC 284 in Perth, Australia, in February.
To achieve his new objective of being the best pound-for-pound, Makhachev stated, "I must travel to Australia and defeat this opponent."
Although Dana White will definitely adore this confrontation, the UFC president still has more to get out of both fighters before bringing them head-to-head.