ISLAM BLAM

Now Russian targets Brit ace Leon

- GARY HITCHCOCK

ISLAM MAKHACHEV has laid waste to the lightweight division as part of his 14-fight winning streak – and has now put Leon Edwards on notice.

The Russian made the third defence of his 155lb title against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 in New Jersey, finally grinding down a durable ‘Diamond’ and polishing him off with a D’arce choke midway through round five.

Makhachev, having also claimed notable wins over Alexander Volkanovski (twice), Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan at lightweight, is now looking to conquer new land at welterweight.

That could put him on a collision course with Birmingham’s Edwards (inset), who will be out to defend the 170lb crown against Belal Muhammad in Manchester next month.