Beneil Dariush gushes over fans championing his title shot ambitions

Beneil Dariush has received plenty of support to be the next fighter to challenge Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title. The No.4-ranked lightweight shared his reaction to seeing fans call for him to receive a title opportunity.

Speaking to MMA Junkie Radio, 'Benny' stated:

"It's so nice to see the fans to get behind you the way they've been getting behind me. For me, it's almost like a first time. I've never had so many fans be like, 'dude, what the heck, this guy needs to get the title shot and I don't even like him'. Those are my favorite people. They're like, 'I don't even like Dariush, but he should get the title shot'. I really genuinely appreciate the fans."

Beneil Dariush continued:

"I'm a father, I'm a husband, and most importantly, I'm a disciple of Jesus and these are the things that I have to focus on. Fights are going to come and go. Fighting is not always going to be a thing for me, but the things that I mentioned will be always for me so that's always going to be my first focus and then fighting is always going to be second. If I don't have control over it, what can I do? I'll just keep beating people up."

While Dariush appears to be next in line to receive a title opportunity, he is reportedly in talks to face Charles Oliveira at UFC 288. A victory over 'Do Bronx' would make him the No.1-ranked lightweight and solidify his title shot. However, a loss would delay that opportunity.

Watch Beneil Dariush's comments below (starting at the 5:38 mark):

Beneil Dariush believes the UFC may be hoping he retires

Beneil Dariush has not lost a fight since 2018, winning eight consecutive bouts. Despite this, he will need to win at least one more fight before receiving a title opportunity.

The No.4-ranked lightweight took to Twitter to share that he believes the UFC may be hoping he retires, stating:

"I think UFC is hoping I retire from old age before they give me a title shot lol."

Dariush's comments came in response to mixed martial arts journalist Luke Thomas, who claimed that his skillset would give lightweight champion Islam Makhachev problems. While 'Benny' appears next to receive a title opportunity, he will need to defeat Charles Oliveira at UFC 288.

Furthermore, he will likely need to book the title fight prior to Conor McGregor's return, as if the former double champ is victorious, he will likely jump the line for a lightweight title opportunity.

Check out the tweets from Beneil Dariush and Luke Thomas below: