'I took him down': Islam Makhachev reveals he floored Leon Edwards ahead of UFC 302 fight vs Poirier

UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev will square off against Dustin Poirier at the UFC 302 PPV. The stakes would be high as the 155 lbs division's title strap will be on the line. The odds put Makhachev as a heavy favourite against the Diamond, who would probably have a last shot at the UFC Championship. The fight is touted to be between UFC Lightweight Champ's wrestling prowess against Poirier's striking ability. Hence, it would be intriguing to witness how these supreme MMA athletes will counter their opponent's prime weapon inside the Octagon. Islam Makhachev vs Dustin Poirier is slated to take place on June 2, 2024 (As per IST) and will be held inside the Prudential Center, New Jersey.

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Islam Makhachev got the better of UFC Welterweight champion Lean Edwards

Islam Makhachev's ability to successfully takedown his opponent is a known phenomenon. Makhachev's ground game is unparalleled and over the years he has showcased outright dominance in the UFC through sublime wrestling. Big names like Alexander Volkanovski, Charles Oliveira, and Dan Hooker have tried in the past and have failed. According to a recent revelation by Makhachev, the list also includes the name of the current Welterweight Champion, Leon Edwards.

In an interview with former UFC double-champion Daniel Cormier, Islam Makhachev made it known that he once sparred with Lean Edwards. Makhachev divulged it was from the time when Edwards was not good in wrestling, and thus he got overpowered in the session.

Islam Makhachev said, "When time began, I went for the double leg, took Leon Edwards down. But at that time, he was not a good wrestler. Right now, maybe he's good at wrestling, but at that time his weak point was wrestling, and I took him down, held him."