Islam Makhachev Responds to Chael Sonnen After Criticism for Not Defending Title
UFC veteran and media personality Chael Sonnen didn't mince words on a recent Good Guy/Bad Guy segment with Daniel Cormier on ESPN MMA. Weighing in on Makhachev's jump to welterweight, Sonnen framed the decision as a retreat rather than a bold career step. 'You have an undefeated, #1 ranked world champion who's chasing you down… You are so interested in getting away from this guy, that you leave your belt,' Sonnen claimed, referencing Ilia Topuria—who, while not officially ranked #1 at lightweight on paper, holds the featherweight title and is widely viewed as a top threat. Topuria has publicly stated that the UFC promised him a lightweight title shot—and in his words, they've kept that promise.
Those comments clearly struck a chord. Makhachev fired back with a sharp message on social media: 'Chasing hype and money is not the same as chasing greatness in sport. But average athlete, who built his way to the top with cheap trash talk, won't understand that. So please seat and watch how others doing it, uncle Chael. #doublechamp'
The debate over whether champions should defend or seek legacy-defining glory is hardly new. Some argue Makhachev owes the division a defense. Others say chasing a second title is the ultimate test of greatness, echoing moves made by Conor McGregor, Daniel Cormier, and Amanda Nunes.
Islam MakhachevGetty Images
And with Topuria emerging as a rising star and newly announced challenger in the lightweight mix, the spotlight on Makhachev's next move only intensifies. For now, Makhachev seems locked in—focused on making history, no matter who's talking.
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Related: Dricus Du Plessis Sends Explicit Response to Contender Ahead of UFC 319
Related: Charles Oliveira Issues a Brutal Warning to Ilia Topuria Before UFC 317
Islam Makhachev Responds to Chael Sonnen After Criticism for Not Defending Title first appeared on Athlon Sports on May 22, 2025
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