Report - Islam Makhachev vs. Drew Dober Earmarked For UFC Event In March

Mandatory Credit: MMA Junkie & PX Images

An intriguing lightweight clash of surging grappling talent, Islam Makhachev, and resurgent striker, Drew Dober is currently targeted for a UFC event sometime in March, with a location, date, or venue for the clash and event yet to be determined by the promotion. A possible landing spot for the targeted bout is reportedly UFC 259 which lands on March 6th. 

Makhachev was most recently booked to match with former lightweight titleholder, Rafael dos Anjos at UFC 253 in October and at UFC Vegas 14 in November, until a positive COVID-19 test ruled dos Anjos out, and a staph infection forced Makhachev from proceedings, respectively.

Last featuring at UFC Fight Night Jacksonville in May -- Dober finished Alexander 'The Great' Hernandez with a second-round barrage of strikes. The victory extended the Elevation Fight Team mainstay's undefeated run to three-fights. News of the targeted matchup was first reported by ESPN MMA reporter, Brett Okamoto.  

A dominant grappler, American Kickboxing Academy ace, Makhachev has scored triumphs in his last six Octagon appearances on the trot. 

 

Last appearing at UFC 242 in September of last year, the 29-year-old took home a unanimous decision victory over Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu ace, Davi Ramos. Makhachev has also added the likes of Arman Tasrukyan, Kajan Johnson, Gleison Tibau, and Nik Lentz to his winning record.

Dober, 32, has scored finishes in his last three consecutive outings, besting Hernandez after opening-round knockout victories over both Nasrat Haqparast, and Marco Polo Reyes. 

A seven-year promotional veteran, Dober has competed at welterweight during his Octagon stint, scoring an overall 9-5-(1) promotional résumé.