Christian Lee On Dominating Islam Makhachev

One Championship double titleholder Christian Lee has called out Islam Makhachev for a cross-promotional superfight, claiming he would beat the UFC pound-for-pound king in every phase of combat.

The Hawaiian-born fighter, who holds lightweight and welterweight straps under the One banner, identified Makhachev's welterweight belt as his preferred target. Speaking to MMA Fighting, Lee said he views himself as the top fighter in the sport regardless of promotion and wants to prove it against the Dagestani champion.

Lee's Confidence Against UFC's Top Star

Lee believes he possesses the tools to finish Makhachev both standing and on the mat. "I feel like I can catch him on the feet," Lee told the outlet. The One star added he could reverse Makhachev's wrestling game and impose the same dominance the UFC champion typically inflicts on opponents.

While crediting Makhachev's record inside the octagon, Lee argued the welterweight titleholder has yet to face competition from other major promotions. Lee's lightweight title goes on the line Nov. 5 against jiu-jitsu specialist Tye Ruotolo at Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok. His welterweight strap has not been defended since he claimed it in 2022.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Christian Lee says he would ‘dominate’ Islam Makhachev