Brendan Schaub Says Islam Makhachev's Resume Isn't GOAT-Worthy

Former UFC heavyweight Brendan Schaub believes Islam Makhachev's accomplishments inside the Octagon deserve respect, but argues that the welterweight champion's résumé is not strong enough to place him among the greatest fighters in UFC history.

Makhachev (28-1 MMA, 17-1 UFC) returns to action on Saturday, making the first defense of his UFC welterweight title against Ian Machado Garry (17-1 MMA, 10-1 UFC) in the main event of UFC 330 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.

Before moving up to 170 pounds, Makhachev established himself as one of the most dominant lightweights ever, setting the UFC record for the most lightweight title defenses before vacating the belt. He then captured the welterweight championship with a commanding victory over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322.

Despite those achievements, Schaub believes the quality of Makhachev's opposition is often overlooked when discussing his legacy.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Schaub said Makhachev's list of victories falls short compared to other all-time greats.

"It would be tough to call him the GOAT based on his résumé," Schaub said. "I'm not trying to hate on Islam, but look at the names. His first win at welterweight came against Jack Della Maddalena. Before that, he defended against Renato Moicano. That's not Islam's fault, but it is what it is."

Schaub also pointed to Makhachev's victories over Dustin Poirier, Alexander Volkanovski and Charles Oliveira, arguing that only Oliveira stands out as a truly elite win.

"Charles Oliveira is his best victory, and that happened in 2022. Volkanovski isn't a natural lightweight, he gave Islam problems in the first fight, then came back too soon for the rematch and got knocked out. Based on his résumé, I don't even have Islam in my top 10. I'm not hating, I just think his strength of schedule has been weak."

Makhachev heads into UFC 330 as a sizeable betting favorite against Machado Garry. A victory would also move him one step closer to making history, as he looks to break the UFC record for the longest winning streak. He is currently tied with Anderson Silva at 16 consecutive victories.