Islam Makhachev gives a brief but surprising one-line response to Dana White pronouncing him the #1 P4P fighter over Jon Jones

Islam Makhachev recently voiced his satisfaction after Dana White named him the no. 1 P4P fighter above Jon Jones. In addition, White called Makhachev the greatest lightweight fighter of all time.

The P4P rankings have been a subject of debate within the MMA world over recent years. While some backed Makhachev, others, including White, hailed 'Bones' as the best P4P fighter on multiple occasions. However, the UFC CEO's perspective shifted following Makhachev's title win at UFC 311.

During the post-fight press conference, White acknowledged that Makhachev currently holds the top spot in the P4P rankings, saying:

''Yeah, I’ll give it to him, Are you happy? Is everybody happy now?''

When asked if Makhachev is the greatest lightweight of all time, White agreed and said:

''Hundred percent, there’s no doubt about it. He’s the pound-for-pound best in the world, and he’s definitely the best to ever do it in that division...Islam was willing to fight anybody. He’s stayed active, and he went out tonight and performed the way a guy should on a short-notice fight when you’re the best in the world, and you’re the champion.”[H/t: MMA Junkie]

Check out Dana White's comments below:

In response to White declaring him the no.1 P4P fighter, Makhachev made a humorous remark, saying:

''I think now I'm close to be hall of fame.''

Check out Islam Makhachev's comments below (2:11):

Makhachev headlined the first pay-per-view event of the year, UFC 311 against Renato Moicano, who stepped in for Arman Tsarukyan after 'Ahalkalakets' withdrew himself from the contest due to a back injury.

The 33-year-old made short work of Moicano, submitting him via a D'Arce choke in the opening round. With this, he made his fourth title defense, most in the UFC history.

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Islam Makhachev reacts to Umar Nurmagomedov's loss against Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 311

Two of the three fighters from the Nurmagomedov clan had a great night, except Umar Nurmagomedov, who was unsuccessful in his bantamweight title bid against reigning champion Merab Dvalishvili in the co-main event of UFC 311.

In the aforementioned post-fight press conference, Islam Makhachev expressed his thoughts on Nurmagomedov's loss, saying:

''Honestly, it was hard. I try to warm up, but I still watch the fights. Maybe it did make me a little bit sad, but Umar is still young and still hungry. He has time...One hundred percent he will come back because he’s still hungry, and he’s going to be UFC champion one day, I’m sure.” [H/t: MMA Junkie]