September 10, 2024 2:40 pm ET
Dana White is not thinking about producing a UFC interim light-weight title.
Islam Makhachev (25-1 MMA, 14-1 UFC) is presently sidelined due to a ligament injury in his hand. He most just recently safeguarded his title with a late submission of Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 in June.
No. 1 competitor Arman Tsarukyan (22-3 MMA, 9-2 UFC) was wanting to challenge Makhachev on Oct. 26 at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi however will likely need to wait a couple of more months. Tsarukyan stated he’s ready to take another battle in the meantime, as long as it’s for an interim title, however White closed down that possibility.
“No,” White stated in an interview with Manouk Akopyan when inquired about an interim light-weight title battle. “Islam’s battled many times and is constantly happy to leap up and take a battle. No, there will not be an interim title. “When he’s all set to go, we’ll go. We have strategies. We’re taking a look at it today on when he would battle.”
Tsarukyan informed Red Corner MMA that he’s hearing his rematch with Makhachev will happen early next year. White was inquired about the possibility of UFC 310 on Dec. 7.
“I do not understand (if Dec. 7 is most likely),” White stated. “We’re dealing with it.”
Tsarukyan edged out Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 to become No. 1 competitor. He dealt with Makhachev in his UFC launching April 2019, losing a back-and-forth consentaneous choice. He has actually given that gone 9-1 and is on a four-fight winning streak.
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