Chael Sonnen believes Islam Makhachev’s dominance across two weight classes may be working against him, at least from an entertainment standpoint.
Makhachev (28-1 MMA, 17-1 UFC) has not lost in over a decade and has built one of the most dominant résumés in modern MMA. After submitting Charles Oliveira to capture the UFC lightweight title in 2022, he went on to rule the 155-pound division before vacating the belt in mid-2025 to pursue a second championship.
The move paid off. Makhachev captured welterweight gold in his divisional debut with a dominant victory over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 in November. Since then, a line of contenders (including Ian Machado Garry, Michael Morales, and former champion Kamaru Usman) has begun to form, all hoping to be the first to challenge him at 170 pounds.
But according to Sonnen, the problem isn’t a lack of challengers, it’s a lack of intrigue.
“I don't think that there is an exciting fight out there for Islam,” Sonnen said in a video posted to his YouTube channel. “When I say I felt like a jerk about it, it wasn't to insult. Islam is great. I fully get Islam's greatness.”
Sonnen clarified that his comments are rooted in Makhachev’s overwhelming skillset, which he believes makes it difficult for fans to buy into the possibility of a competitive fight.
“I’m saying I don't think there's an exciting fight,” Sonnen continued. “I think Islam has gotten to that level of greatness where it’s hard to think that somebody can deal with that.”
That perceived lack of competitive danger, Sonnen argues, directly impacts fan interest.
“And if you can't make believe that somebody can deal with that, you cannot be excited for the fight. This is my contention.”
While Makhachev’s dominance has solidified his place among the sport’s elite, it may also be creating an unusual dilemma: the better he becomes, the harder it is to sell the drama that fuels the fight game.
