Islam Makhachev is expecting to run through the UFC lightweight division with his excellent wrestling skills. He also expects his skills to translate well against the champion, Charles Oliveria.

Charles Oliveira has excellent Brazilian jiu-jitsu and has been submitting many high-level UFC lightweights. Islam Makhachev isn't worried about that considering the wrestling aspect of the fight.

“It’s going to be a good fight because we almost have the same style. He has good grappling skills, he has good striking, and it’s going to be a good fight,” Makhachev said at the UFC Vegas 49 media day. “I don’t think it’s going to be hard for me. I can take him down easy because I know he doesn’t have good wrestling skills. But his grappling skills (are) high level and we will see who is better there.”

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Charles Oliveira is currently expected to take on Justin Gaethje in his next UFC lightweight title defense. Islam Makhachev currently has his hands full with a short-notice opponent change with Bobby Green taking him on.

“I think Oliveira is going to beat Justin Gaethje, and (it will be) 11 winning streak vs. 10-win streak,” Makhachev said. “This is going to be a big fight for all MMA fans. I think he’s going to finish him. I think he’s going to strike with him (in the) first round, and after, he’s going to take him down. I think he’s going to choke him.”

UFC Vegas 49 will be the first step to help determine if Islam Makhachev vs Charles Oliveira will happen. Bobby Green will be hoping he can ruin the party and get the next title shot at lightweight.