Who will be the lightweight champion in 2023 – The Best Players to Bet On

Islam Makhachev

Online bettors who want to wager on something else other than football are often interested in betting on MMA. Speaking of the devil, this sport is becoming more popular, which explains why some bookies offer more options. You can always check these top MMA bookies that offer their clients the chance to bet on all fights and choose from some of the most interesting betting markets.

While we are on the topic of MMA and betting, we must mention that the UFC is this sport’s most popular league. In case you didn’t know, the UFC is divided into numerous divisions, depending on the fighter’s weight. Even though some people are only interested in the heavyweight, there is no arguing that every division is amazing to watch. The lightweight is also not an exception because you can find loads of top-tier players.

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Some bookies allow players to bet on the potential champion of each division, which is why it is time to go through some of the favorites for the lightweight. 

Islam Makhachev

Unsurprisingly, the first player on the list is the current lightweight champion Islam Ramzanovich Makhachev. The former Sambo player has been a professional fighter since 2010, and during that time, he proved himself as one of the best in the world.

Prior to becoming a part of the UFC, Makhachev played for M-1 Global. However, things changed once he signed a four-year deal with the UFC in 2014. Since he became a part of the organization, Islam Makhachev has 23 wins and only 1 loss, making him one of the most impressive UFC fighters. His only loss is against Adriano Martins at UFC 192. 

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Unsurprisingly, people who want to make money from sports betting often choose Makhachev because his win rate is impressive.

Charles Oliveira

The second name UFC fans will keep an eye on regarding the lightweight division is Charles Oliveria. Even though he is not the current champion, the 33-year-old Brazilian definitely has what it takes to be the best in his division.

After beginning his career in 2007, Oliveira slowly but steadily proved that he was not like other MMA fighters. In fact, many people thought that he was among the top 3 Brazilian fighters in 2010, which is why he became a part of the UFC.

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Following several years of impressive results, Oliveira eventually became the UFC Lightweight champion in 2021. The Brazilian star had to go up against Michael Chandler and fight for the vacant title because Khabib Nurmagomedov had decided to retire.

Dustin Poirier

The next name on the list is the 33-year-old U.S. MMA fighter Dustin Poirier. He became a part of the UFC in 2010, and since then, he has always been one of the leading names in his division. With a total of 28 wins and 7 losses, he is among the more successful players.

Interestingly, Dustin Poirier will have to go up against Michael Chandler at UFC 281. The latter will take place in just a few weeks from now, which means it will provide excellent betting opportunities.