This week’s MMA mailbag tackles some intriguing questions about Islam Makhachev’s place among the all-time great fighters, the longstanding issue of eye pokes and rule enforcement in combat sports, the unique dynamics of sumo wrestling, Dana White’s political positioning, and the ethics of giving controversial figures a media platform. Below is a detailed exploration of these topics, drawing from recent discussions and expert commentary.
**Islam Makhachev: A Future GOAT?**
One fan asked whether a win at UFC 322 would cement Islam Makhachev’s status as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time. The short answer is yes, it would significantly bolster his claim, but with some caveats.
Makhachev’s resume is undeniably impressive. He’s approaching near-untouchable status with very few losses, a hallmark of elite champions. He’s captured a UFC title and defended it against some of the best in the lightweight division. Most notably, he has submitted Charles Oliveira and Dustin Poirier, two of the best lightweights of this era, which is no small feat and highlights his elite grappling prowess.
However, some critics might argue that his overall strength of schedule is not on par with other all-time greats. For instance, his two fights against Alexander Volkanovski—a fighter who is notably smaller and primarily a featherweight champion—don’t carry the same weight as battles against established champions in his division. The first fight was a close win, and the rematch ended quickly after Volkanovski arguably took the fight on short notice without a full training camp. Other opponents, like Renato Moicano, who was given a somewhat convenient title shot, don’t necessarily add to Makhachev’s legacy of dominance.
This weekend’s matchup against Jack Della Maddalena (JDM) introduces a fresh dynamic. JDM is a new welterweight champion with an undefeated UFC record, and although he also benefited from an unexpected title shot, he has shown he can capitalize on opportunities. His skill set could pose genuine challenges for Makhachev, particularly if he can neutralize Makhachev’s dominant wrestling. The first round will likely be very telling of how the fight will unfold.
If Makhachev wins this fight, it will undoubtedly strengthen his case for GOAT status, but some skeptics will likely argue that he beat a “caretaker” champion rather than an established titleholder. Ultimately, while Makhachev’s record is impressive and his skills undeniable, the ongoing debate about strength of schedule and quality of opposition means his place among the all-time greats will continue to be discussed, especially in comparison to other champions with more high-profile victories.
**Why Has Referee Enforcement on Eye Pokes Lagged Behind?**
Another reader pointed out the recent statement from referee Herb Dean that rules against extended fingers and eye pokes will now be strictly enforced moving forward—prompting the question: why hasn’t this enforcement happened before, and why is it only now openly acknowledged?
The reality is that the rules regarding extended fingers and eye pokes have existed for years. Referees have occasionally reminded fighters mid-fight to keep their fingers curled to avoid eye pokes. Yet, enforcement has traditionally been very lenient, with little to no penalties given for first offenses, and eye pokes remain a frequent and frustrating occurrence in MMA.
The core issue lies in the referees’ reluctance to intervene too much and become the deciding factor in a fight. Referees generally prefer that the fighters’ skills determine the outcome rather than point deductions or disqualifications for fouls. This understandable instinct, however, creates an environment where fighters can push the limits, sometimes bending rules without fear of consequences, which effectively encourages a form of cheating.
To address this, some have suggested that rule enforcement should be less discretionary and more automatic. For example, in sports like hockey, penalties like slashing carry predetermined consequences, with little room for subjective judgment once the foul is committed. Applying a similar approach to MMA—automatic point deductions or other penalties for eye pokes and extended fingers—could reduce the prevalence of these fouls and promote cleaner fights.
While this won’t eliminate all fouls, stricter and more consistent enforcement would be a positive step toward ensuring fighters adhere to the rules and that fights are decided by skill, not fouls.
**Sumo Wrestling: Why Eye Pokes Are Rare Despite Bare Hands**
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