Former UFC lightweight champion Frankie Edgar knows the challenge awaiting Dustin Poirier having witnessed Islam Makhachev’s recent preparation firsthand.
Makhachev is a couple of days out from his third defense of the 155-pound title and first against an established contender in the division. In the main event of UFC 302, the Dagestani will meet the challenge of Poirier.
The bout comes after the champ cemented his grip on the crown in 2023 with two victories over then-featherweight kingpin Alexander Volkanovski, the second of which came by way of a brutal knockout in Abu Dhabi.
While Makhachev had the crowd on his side in the Middle East, those inside Newark’s Prudential Center will no doubt be cheering for his opposition come fight night, as one of the sport’s biggest fan favorites looks to reach the throne at the third time of trying.
According to one former champ, however, Makhachev is unlikely to be unseated anytime soon…
Edgar Sees Makhachev Remaining UFC Lightweight King ‘For A While’
During a recent interview with John Morgan for Grind City Media, Edgar spoke about his experience training alongside Makhachev and his team at Nick Catone MMA & Fitness in New Jersey.
While “The Answer” didn’t delve into the details of Makhachev’s pre-fight work, he did note that those who’ve lauded Makhachev’s talent were certainly not exaggerating.
“I’m just hanging out with these guys, trying to take as much knowledge as I can while they’re down,” Edgar said. “I got them set up with the right people (in New Jersey)… It’s cool just to rub off on these guys, man. They train amazing, you know, bunch of good guys… It was a cool experience for everybody.
“He’s an animal, man. I’m not gonna say really what goes on behind closed doors, but watching him against some of the guys he’s sparring is impressive,” Edgar continued. “All the stories about him are true, if that makes sense.”
Edgar also made an appearance in episode three of the UFC 302 Embedded: Vlog Series, further laying praise on Makhachev’s training and ability.
“It’s go time for these guys. They’re all zeroing in,” Edgar stated. “Islam, he’s just a freak. I see him having this belt for a while.”
Makhachev will look to prove Edgar, his supporters, and the oddsmakers right this weekend at UFC 302 by becoming the third individual to stall the championship ambitions of Poirier.
The grind never stops 💪@MAKHACHEVMMA | #UFC303 pic.twitter.com/qlpLdEaQs6
— UFC (@ufc) May 30, 2024
