In a suspicious claim that’s sending ripples through the MMA community, former UFC middleweight champion Michael Bisping has suggested that the UFC might make an exception to their new championship policy for lightweight king Islam Makhachev. This comes amid growing speculation about Makhachev potentially moving up to challenge for the welterweight title.
According to Bisping, the UFC would likely not strip Makhachev of his lightweight championship should he decide to move up to 170 pounds. This stance contradicts recent reports indicating the promotion has implemented a new policy requiring champions to vacate their titles when pursuing belts in other divisions.
“Because he’s such a great champion, because he has taken short-notice fights, because he’s the most successful lightweight on planet Earth in the history of the sport, there won’t be any crazy talks of stripping Islam Makhachev,” Bisping explained while discussing potential matchups for the dominant champion.
The statement raises questions about consistency in UFC’s championship policies, especially with talks of potential matchups between Makhachev and top welterweight contenders like the winner of the rumored Jack De La Madeleine versus Belal Muhammad contest.
MMA enthusiasts have expressed mixed reactions, with some supporting special treatment for exceptional champions like Makhachev, while others argue that rules should apply universally. One fan noted that Makhachev’s dominant run as lightweight champion warrants special consideration, having established himself as potentially the greatest 155-pounder in UFC history.
Critics point out this apparent double standard creates confusion around title legitimacy and divisional progression. They question why other champions would be forced to vacate while Makhachev might receive preferential treatment.
The debate highlights the constant tension in combat sports between strict organizational rules and the star power of exceptional athletes. If Bisping’s assessment proves accurate, it would represent a significant exception to what was thought to be a new era of single-division champions in the UFC.
For now, fans eagerly await official confirmation of Makhachev’s next move and whether the UFC will indeed bend its newly implemented rules for one of its most dominant champions.
