UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev successfully defended his title at UFC 302 with a stunning submission victory over Dustin Poirier.
Makhachev's win over Poirier was the third title defense of his UFC career, sparking immediate discussion over whether he was now the world's No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter.
Following the pay-per-view, Dana White was asked where Makhachev ranks on the pound-for-pound list, and he wasn't too quick to take the crown away from heavyweight titleholder Jon Jones just yet.
“I think he’s one of the greatest of all-time,” White said at the UFC 302 post-fight press conference. “I think he’s incredible. I don’t think he’s the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world. For anyone to call Islam the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world when Jon Jones is still f*cking fighting is nuts and shouldn’t be ranking in the pound-for-pound, or doing any of the f*cking rankings ever if that’s what you really think."
When Makhachev (26-1) stepped to the podium, he was asked about White's comments, and he had some thoughts of his own to share.
“I don’t know – maybe it’s his opinion,” Makhachev said. “I think I saved this card today because all these fights were boring and all arena almost sleep. We showed with Dustin a great performance. Dana gave me two bonuses.
"Before when I remember I had the first contract I would get very happy when I have bonus, but now it’s OK.”
Makhachev, who has not lost since UFC 192 in October 2015, is currently on a 14-fight winning streak. He has finished seven of his last eight opponents.
What's next for Makhachev has yet to be announced, but a title defense against Arman Tsarukyan or a move for welterweight are both viable options.