Dana White Rules Out Interim Lightweight Title Amidst Makhachev’s Injury

The UFC lightweight division faces an uncertain future as President Dana White has firmly stated he has no plans to introduce an interim title. This decision comes at a time when the reigning champion, Islam Makhachev, is sidelined due to a hand tendon injury. Makhachev most recently defended his belt with a late submission victory over Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 in June, showcasing his championship mettle despite his current physical setback.

Makhachev’s Championship Status Unchanged

Despite his recent injury, Islam Makhachev remains the undisputed UFC lightweight champion. The Russian fighter is currently recovering from a torn tendon in his hand, an injury sustained during his hard-fought victory at UFC 302. This setback means he will be unable to compete for a significant period, leaving the division in a state of flux. However, White’s stance is clear as long as Makhachev is willing and able to fight when healthy, an interim title will not be created. This policy reflects a general aversion from the UFC president to creating interim belts unless absolutely necessary, aiming to preserve the prestige of the main championship. Makhachev’s commitment to defending his title whenever he’s medically cleared is a key factor in White’s decision-making process.

Tsarukyan’s Title Aspirations on Hold

The situation has left top contender Arman Tsarukyan in a difficult position. Ranked number one in the lightweight division, Tsarukyan was anticipating a title shot against Makhachev on October 26th at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi. However, with Makhachev’s injury, this highly anticipated bout is now postponed indefinitely. Tsarukyan has publicly expressed his willingness to take another fight in the interim, but only if it were for a temporary championship. Unfortunately for him, Dana White has shut down this possibility, citing Makhachev’s general readiness to compete as the reason for not instituting an interim belt. This means Tsarukyan, despite his impressive recent performances, will likely have to wait several more months for his opportunity to challenge for the undisputed lightweight crown.

The Unpredictable Landscape of the Lightweight Division

Arman Tsarukyan’s path to the number one contender spot has been nothing short of dominant. His victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 was a significant statement, solidifying his claim to a title shot. While he lost a close decision to Makhachev in his UFC debut back in April 2019, he has since compiled an impressive 9-1 record, currently riding a four-fight win streak. The future of the UFC lightweight title remains somewhat uncertain with Makhachev sidelined and White’s refusal to create an interim belt. Fans eager to see the top contenders clash for championship glory will undoubtedly have to exercise patience. Nevertheless, with hungry fighters like Tsarukyan waiting in the wings, the lightweight division is poised to deliver plenty of excitement and compelling matchups in the coming months, even without an interim title on the line.