Islam Makhachev's UFC GOAT case gets pushback from former champs

Following Islam Makhachev's decision victory over Ian Garry at UFC 330, the Russian lightweight-turned-welterweight champion has set a new UFC record for most consecutive wins. The achievement has sparked debate among former champions about whether Makhachev has earned GOAT (greatest of all time) status in the sport.

In an episode of the podcast "Deep Waters," former middleweight champ Chris Weidman, ex-interim lightweight titleholder Dustin Poirier, and Jorge Masvidal—a former BMF champion—offered their perspectives on Makhachev's place in UFC history. Weidman expressed caution about crowning Makhachev the GOAT, citing the importance of title defenses as a measuring stick. He referenced Anderson Silva and Demetrious Johnson as historical benchmarks, suggesting Makhachev hasn't yet reached their level despite his impressive run.

Poirier was definitive in his assessment, naming Jon Jones as his choice for UFC's greatest fighter. Masvidal took a different angle, questioning the caliber of competition Makhachev faced during his lightweight reign. He noted that several of Makhachev's 155-pound title defenses came against fighters who had previously competed at featherweight (145 pounds), including two bouts against former 145-pounders. Weidman added that Charles Oliveira, another of Makhachev's lightweight opponents, also had a history at featherweight.

The discussion reflects an ongoing tension in MMA analysis: whether consecutive wins alone define greatness, or whether the strength of opposition and historical title defense records remain the primary measures of a fighter's legacy. Makhachev's recent move to welterweight and his first title defense there adds another layer to the debate about his ultimate place in UFC history.