"That's almost blasphemy" - Chael Sonnen on B.J. Penn being removed from the lightweight GOAT list in lieu of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira

With Charles Oliveira's upcoming fight for the lightweight championship just days away, talk of him surpassing Khabib Nurmagomedov on the lightweight GOAT list is growing. However, the idea of MMA pioneer B.J. Penn being abandoned from the conversation is shocking to Chael Sonnen.

The UFC has experienced a spectacular surge in popularity, having endured the initial aversion of society to the sport. The organization has come a long way, thanks to the trailblazers of yesteryear and fighting superstars today.

Amongst the many fighters who paved the way for a generation of fighters is B.J. Penn.

In recent times, though, Charles Oliveira and Khabib Nurmagomedov have occupied pole positions in the debate for the best lightweight fighter, something that Chael Sonnen deems absurd.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Sonnen stated:

"People have removed B.J. Penn from it [GOAT list]. That's almost blasphemy, but they have."

Sonnen's dismay can be justified when Penn's exceptional career is taken into consideration. 'The Prodigy' competed in over five different weight categories throughout his career, which spanned almost two decades.

The former UFC lightweight and welterweight champion was the second of only seven fighters in UFC history to win titles in multiple weight classes.

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Michael Bisping believes Charles Oliveira will surpass Khabib Nurmagomedov with a win over Islam Makhachev

Khabib Nurmagomedov's friend and apprentice Islam Makhachev will battle Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight throne at UFC 280 this weekend.

Many in the MMA community have recognized 'The Eagle' as the greatest lightweight in UFC history owing to his unblemished record. Nurmagomedov was also inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame's Modern Wing earlier this year.

The rise of Charles Oliveira, however, has had fans contemplating the list all over again. Oliveira is on a spectacular 11-fight win streak and has amassed a better finishing rate than the retired Dagestani.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, former UFC middleweight champion Michael Bisping claimed that a victory over Makhachev will cement the Brazilian's claim as the lightweight GOAT:

"Greatest lightweight of all time? I think if Charles beats Islam this weekend, I think that belongs to Charles now. I really do. I think he will have surpassed him simply because he’s taken out all the top contenders. And it’s not Khabib’s fault, but you cannot deny the numbers, the momentum, the history that Oliveira’s making.”

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