Georges St-Pierre believes Islam Makhachev is right where he belongs at the top of the P4P rankings.
Following his impressive fifth-round submission victory over Dustin Poirier at UFC 302, the ‘Dagestani Destroyer’ re-established himself as the No. 1 ranked pound-for-pound fighter in the world. However, UFC CEO Dana White was quick to question the validity of Makhachev sitting above Jon Jones.
During a recent conversation with Tristar Gym proprietor and longtime coach Firas Zahabi, ‘Rush’ backed Makhachev’s spot and was undeniably impressed with the lightweight world champion’s heart—particularly in his entertaining clash with ‘The Diamond.’
“I think right now he’s the best pound-for-pound right now,” St-Pierre told coach Zahabi on the Tristar Gym YouTube channel. Because of his last few performances. Just amazing. An amazing showcase of heart, too, because he had a bad cut on his forehead and Poirier gave him a tough time. Pushed the pace to the edge, and I think that fight is going to make Makhachev even better. These are the fights that make you grow.”
Georges St-Pierre believes that Islam Makhachev is the pound-for-pound best fighter in the UFC right now
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Georges St-Pierre Sees Makhachev Obtaining ‘All-Time Great’ Status Before Long
Since scoring a big win against Charles Oliveira to claim the 155-pound crown at UFC 280, Makhachev has defended his title three times, besting former featherweight king Alexander Volkanovski in back-to-back bouts before putting away Poirier.
“He’s already starting to get to that status right now (as an all-time great),” St-Pierre said. “Beating Volkanovski and now his last few performances are amazing.”
Watch the full video below:
