Jordan Burroughs Calls Out Islam Makhachev for RAF Faceoff

Jordan Burroughs has been one of the most respected names within the wrestling community. Having shown his prowess by winning the coveted Olympic gold, Burroughs is now looking to extend his legacy. Coming to the Real American Freestyle (RAF) recently, the Olympic legend called out Islam Makhachev as his potential future opponent. 

Jordan Burroughs Challenges Islam Makhachev’s Wrestling Skills

When it comes to wrestling in the UFC, there are a very few names that have dominated the octagon like Makhachev. Displaying some elite wrestling, the Dagestani fighter has only lost one bout in his UFC career so far. Recently, the two-division champion once again, proved his elite wrestling talent to overcome the challenge posed by Ian Garry. 

Despite watching Makhachev’s dominance, Burroughs is confident about his strength. Speaking with Ariel Helwani, the Olympic gold medalist stated, “Number one, I would like to wrestle Islam. I think that's the top of my list. A few years ago in an interview, he was like, 'Man, JB's just got a double leg, brother. Like, I'm from Russia. Russia is the premier wrestling program. Well, let's see.”

On paper, the proposed fight looks like a banger. However, there is no certainty as to whether the bout will come to fruition. Makhachev is still recovering from his UFC 330 fight. And once he is fully healed, the 34-year-old will concentrate on his next UFC title defense. 

Meanwhile, Makhachev is not the only UFC fighter Burroughs wants to fight. 

Jordan Burroughs Also Wants to Fight Arman Tsarukyan, Colby Covington

The wrestling icon had a superb debut at RAF 12. Facing off against Sean Brady, Burroughs dominated the mat and won 11-0. Growing in confidence further, the Olympian pointed out that he would like to test his skills against the likes of Tsarukyan and Covington. 

Burroughs told Helwani, “Number two for me is Arman Tsarukyan, and I really want to wrestle him. I think he's got a great name, a great brand. He's a really good wrestler. He's someone I have tremendous respect for and someone who's really gonna sell the event, so I'd love the opportunity to wrestle him.”

He added, “Number three is Colby. I'd love to wrestle Colby Covington. I think, again, another guy with charisma, spunk, but also championship pedigree, right? He's been the number one contender for a number of years in the welterweight division in the UFC. He's someone I'd like to wrestle."

Surely, it is evident that Burroughs does have a long list of opponents in his mind. But how many of them will become a reality is something only the future can answer.