UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has opened the door to a potential fight with former title holder Conor McGregor despite previously shutting down the idea.
There is a fierce rivalry between Makhachev's team, led by former champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, and McGregor dating back to a fight in 2018 between the two former title holders. And the Irishman has claimed that he has the formula to beat Makhachev, who has looked unbeatable during his recent winning streak on the way to the lightweight title.
Now it seems that the lightweight champion would be willing to move up in weight and compete for the gold at 170lb. And if the promotion were to give him one fight before he challenges for the gold, it could be a massive money opportunity against McGregor after the Irishman's comeback.