Beneil Dariush is making great strides in the lightweight division. Previously, the Assyrian was victorious over Tony Ferguson at UFC 262. Since then, Dariush has been plotting his next move.
Speaking to Brett Okamoto from ESPN, Dariush discusses the aftermath of UFC 262, the McGregor vs Poirier trilogy, and his future plans. Firstly, Beneil agrees that the winner of Conor vs Dustin 3 will be the number one contender. However, Beneil also makes a strong case for himself as to why he deserves the shot over them.
Additionally, Dariush reveals who he thinks will win the fight. “In my opinion, Dustin. I think the time in the Octagon makes a lot of difference. He (Conor) hasn’t poured in that blood that’s required”. According to Dariush, time inside the Octagon is of utmost importance, hence Dustin’s experience and endurance will serve as an advantage.
However, regardless of who wins, Dariush believes that due to complications over contracts with big-name fighters, he could be the easier option. “These guys are not so easy when it comes to contracts. You know who is easy for making contracts? This guy right here. All I wanna do is fight”. Here, Dariush makes a case that he can be available to fight without hassle, and plus, he has the resume to warrant his shot.
Following his victory over Ferguson, Dariush became the only fighter with a seven-fight win streak in the top 5 lightweights. As such, he already feels that he is more deserving of a shot at Oliveira than Mcgregor, Poirier, or Gaethje. Hence, the UFC could be compelled to make a different decision.
Will Beneil Dariush Fight Charles Oliveira Next?
Whilst Beneil Dariush is certainly keen to fight Charles Oliveira, he will only do so when the time is right. Dariush clarifies that he will stay and welcome his first child into the world even if the Oliveira fight is available in the summer.
Tony Ferguson punches Beneil Dariush in their lightweight bout during the UFC 262 event at Toyota Center on May 15, 2021, in Houston, Texas. ( Credits: Getty Images)
Previously, the pair were going to fight in October, but Oliveira had to withdraw due to injury. Since then, Oliveira has made his way to UFC gold, whilst Dariush worked his way to a prime contender spot in the division.
Furthermore, Dariush reveals that he will be taking some time off to welcome his first child into the world. Additionally, Charles Oliveira is also taking time off to celebrate his title back home in Brazil. Hence, both the fighters will be operating on a similar time frame, making a potential fight, a fairly plausible idea.
Read More: Beneil Dariush Claims He Got the Longest Streak in the Top Three After UFC 262 Unanimous Win
