Makhachev eyes ’dream fight’ at Madison Square Garden next

UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. Photo via Twitter (UFC)

After defeating Dustin Poirier via a fifth-round submission, reigning lightweight champion Islam Makhachev is just one more win away from becoming historic as the first to defend the lightweight strap four times.

At the UFC 302 post-fight press conference, the champion revealed that he’s looking to fulfill a dream next.

”Honestly, it’s my dream fight in Madison Square Garden,” Makhachev told the reporters. ”Now, I think the US fans likes me because we showed a good fight tonight. If they give me a chance to come back to Madison Square Garden, this is my dream to fight in this arena.”

Read more: UFC 302 recap: Islam Makhachev wins dog fight, Sean Strickland almost robbed by crazy scorecard

Islam Makhachev: ”I don’t like being cut”

The champion expected a quick finish against Porier, however, the fight turned out to be a real dog fight.

”I don’t like being cut,” Makachev said with a smile. ”Dustin is a dog, you know. He will bite, kick, punch. Happy to finish him, but this guy is one of the best. Still one of the best in the world.”

Going into the fifth round, two judges had 2-2 on the scorecards, and the fight was very much open.

”When you finish the opponent, it’s done,” Makachev said about cementing the win with a submission.

Read more: Karlos Vemola Talks ‘Life Or Death’ Approach To Final MMA Fight Dubbed ‘Rematch Of The Century’

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