Two-division champion Daniel Cormier has always been outspoken when it comes to supporting his friends in the fight game. He shares a close bond with Team Khabib and doesn’t hesitate to stand up for them, especially on social media during times of controversy. Recently, when some fans mocked Islam Makhachev for supposedly avoiding a fight with Ilia Topuria, Cormier stepped in to defend Makhachev’s decision to move up to 170 pounds.
Cormier has faced backlash from fans for what many see as his bias toward Team Khabib. Still, he continues to support Islam Makhachev, especially after Makhachev’s surprising decision to move up to welterweight—a move that caught many fans off guard. Some believe a potential showdown between Makhachev and Topuria could be one of the biggest fights in UFC history. Defending Makhachev’s choice, Cormier recently addressed the criticism in a YouTube video, saying:
“This is the first time, honestly, Islam has put his wishes above what everybody else wants. Because when everybody else wanted him to fight Volk, he did.”
The former two-division champ highlighted how the Dagestani fighter was ready to fight when the Arman Tsarukyan bout fell through. Instead of backing out, Islam stepped in on just a day’s notice to face Renato Moicano. Cormier stressed that Makhachev has always shown up when it mattered.
Joaquin Buckley Says He’s the Real Threat To Islam Makhachev, Not Jack Della Maddalena
Fans are hyped about Islam Makhachev’s move to welterweight and his title shot against Jack Della Maddalena, confirmed by his manager. But not everyone is giving the former lightweight champ the respect he’s used to. UFC welterweight contender Joaquin Buckley believes he’s a bigger threat than JDM. Now, Buckley is doubling down, warning Makhachev about entering his division. In an interview with Parry Punch, he said,
“Even though Islam and I have never had a connection, he’s going to know a lot about me if we ever get booked to fight. The people he has struggled with and the people that have shown a couple of holes in his game — I’m going to be his worst nightmare, not JDM.”
Buckley also said JDM has weaknesses Makhachev can exploit, but claimed he’s the real danger. Citing his dominant win over Colby Covington. Meanwhile, Makhachev’s future at welterweight looks challenging, with tougher competition ahead.
Also Read: Ali Abdelaziz Downplays Charles Oliveira As A Suitable Opponent For Ilia Topuria