Islam Makhachev claims his hand injury can prevent his Abu Dhabi fight

The UFC Lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has recently revealed about a hand injury that could potentially prevent his next fight from happening. He confirmed a ligament tear and it looks like he will need some time to recover. Makhachev has expressed a desire to fight at the end of this year. A title defense fight against Arman Tsarukyan is highly anticipated. However, due to a hand injury, the clash could be put on hold. 

Fans want to see Tsarukyan vs Makhachev 

UFC 302 was one of the most exciting events this year. Islam Makhachev was successful in defending his lightweight title against Dustin Poirier by submission in a 5-round long bout. Although Islam secured the win, he got a hand injury. After this bout, Makhachev has definitely proved himself as one of the best lightweight fighters in the promotion. Fans were eager to know who he would face next and were rooting for a rematch between him and Arman Tsarukyan.  

The hand injury could ruin Makhachev’s plans 

Makhachev had also talked about the possibility of moving down to welterweight in order to capture another title. However, it seems these wishes will have to be put on hold for now. Recently, in an interview with YouTuber Ushatayka, Makhachev explained how his hand injury could potentially put a halt to his upcoming fight aspirations. Makhachev had an MRI that confirmed he has a partial ligament tear. He might have to undergo surgery. 

The potential matchup between Makhachev and Tsarukyan was rumored to take place in Abu Dhabi in October. Now it seems doubtful due to the injury. Makhachev stated that he is rehabilitating himself every day ahead of his future bout. He also revealed that he has had no discussions with the UFC about a future fight. 

The Armenian fighter wants to prove critics wrong 

Arman Tsarukyan is the one fans want to see face off with Islam Makhachev. Although their first fight ended in a victory for Islam, that matchup is still called one of the toughest fights for the Russian fighter. The Armenian fighter has also evolved incredibly after that loss and has scored some amazing wins in the UFC. Tsarukyan’s most recent win came against Charles Oliveria at UFC 300. “Akhalkalakets” wants to prove the critics wrong and defeat Makhachev this time. In an interview with Sports24, Arman said that he wants to train with Khamzat Chimaev in preparation for his future fight against the lightweight champion. 

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