Islam Makhachev is the current lightweight champion and with his performance he is quickly moving up in the other divisions too. UFC fighter Joaquin Buckley mentioned his views on Makhachev’s impact on the welterweight division.
He states, there is “no big threat” even countered by doubting his skills that whether grappling-heavy style would work against bigger, stronger welterweights or not. Buckley’s remarks that the path is not as smooth as Makhachev hoping.
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Buckley Dismisses Islam as Overhyped Threat, Cites Lack of Unity and Military Power
William F. Buckley Jr. argued that Islam is not the big threat as fans are portraying him. He shields his statement by saying that the west has exaggerated fears and overwhelming him. Buckley emphasized the lack of unified leadership and advanced military talent across many Muslim-majority countries, suggesting they posed no cohesive, large-scale threat. He solidified his statement by giving the statement of the Cold War era with the Soviet Union, that there was no power in Islamic world in the past and now in the present.
Buckley Hails UFC Welterweight as Elite Battleground: Garry, Rakhmonov, Brady Lead New Wave of Talent
Welterweight is the toughest division in the entire UFC and Joaquin Buckley highlighted key names like Ian Garry, Shavkat Rakhmonov, and Sean Brady—each bringing unique skills. Garry, Popular Irish player known for his immense speed and technical precision. Fans compare him with legendary McGregor. Shavkat Rakhmonov with his dominant striking and grappling remained undefeated in his UFC journey. All of them lift the standards of the division and represent a new generation of talent.
Islam Makhachev: Unstoppable Force at Lightweight, But Can His Dominance Survive the Welterweight Gauntlet?
Islam Makhachev grappling and striking precision is unstoppable among the UFC players and he is the current reigning UFC lightweight division champion. He defended his title all time and has a very good title defence record all because of his fighting style. Widely regarded as one of the pound-for-pound best, he has successfully carried forward the legacy of his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov. However, the Welterweight is full of elite and dangerous players and will test Islam strength against naturally bigger opponents and disrupt the rhythm he has mastered at 155 pounds. Islam fighting style is threat to any division player.
“Prove Himself” Angle: Buckley Says Makhachev Still Has Legacy Questions to Answer
The “Prove Himself” angle spotlights Buckley’s assertion that Islam Makhachev still has something to demonstrate to critics and fans alike. No doubt he dominated the division and even other divisions too but still he hasn’t silenced all doubts that ensures he has carried the legacy of greatness left by Khabib. It’s not just about winning—it’s about proving he can consistently perform under pressure, adapt to different styles, and defeat elite challengers in emphatic fashion.
Implications
The transaction will impact both the division and a global level discussion on the fight. If Shawn Spears moves to Islam (presumably a faction or brand), it could significantly shake up both divisions. For the men’s roster, his arrival might lead to fresh rivalries with stars like Mustafa Ali or Sami Zayn. For the tag division, Spears could partner with a like-minded wrestler, posing a serious threat to established teams. His presence could bring a new layer of intensity, especially if framed around ideological conflict or respect-driven competition. This shift might also give mid-card talent a spotlight, with Spears acting as a catalyst for compelling storylines.
Reddaveni Saisneha