Number five-ranked UFC lightweight Islam Makhachev continues to inch his way into UFC title contention. On Saturday at UFC 267, the 30-year-old Dagestani competitor extended his win streak to nine by defeating fellow top-ten contender Dan Hooker via first-round submission.
Naturally, everyone at Makhachev’s stateside home gym at the American Kickboxing Academy was in a celebratory mood. Former double-champ and UFC commentator Daniel Cormier was one of those who vocalized his excitement towards his longtime training partner.
But that call for a title shot for Makhachev didn’t sit well with number-two ranked 155-pound contender Justin Gaethje, who later fired back.
The exchange carried on for a bit more until Cormier ultimately pacified the conversation.
“The Highlight” may get his second crack at UFC gold if he gets through another top-tier contender in Michael Chandler this Saturday at UFC 268. The bout takes place at Madison Square Garden in New York City.