Islam Makhachev dismissed suggestions he is under huge pressure to perform at UFC 267 on Saturday, although he is seeking a statement victory against Dan Hooker in Abu Dhabi to cement his credentials as a lightweight title contender.
The Dagestan native, bidding for a ninth win on the bounce, takes on the dangerous New Zealander in one of the most eagerly anticipated bouts of the night at Etihad Arena.
Makhachev was originally slated to face Rafael Dos Anjos, yet the former champion was forced to withdraw last month because of injury. The division’s No 5-ranked challenger – Hooker is No 6 – Makhachev has not tasted defeated in five years – his solitary defeat in 21 professional bouts.
And, as a close friend and teammate of Khabib Nurmagomedov, Makhachev is tipped by many as heir to the former belt-holder’s throne. He is also a firm fan’s favourite in Abu Dhabi and throughout the region, so expectation runs high.
“I’m not an amateur fighter,” Makhachev said on Wednesday. “This is not pressure. This is just support.
“All the arena is going to be full and all is going to be my people. That’s why I have to show the people a good performance.”
Win on Saturday, and calls will amplify for Makhachev to contest the title next. At present, Charles Oliveira holds the belt, and puts that on the line in December against No 1 contender, Dustin Poirier.
Asked about the need for an emphatic success at UFC 267, Makhachev said: “I know I have to finish Dan Hooker because I finish my last three opponent. I try to finish all my opponents. I have to show people, show the UFC how my level is. Because very soon I have to fight for the title. That’s why I’m going to try and finish him, everywhere.”
On Hooker’s skillset, where stand-up is his specialty compared to Makhachev’s expert ground game, Makhachev added: “Honestly I don’t see his wrestling, his grappling skills. But we will see. I’m going to check.
“I respect him because he took this fight. But other things…”
ABU DHABI CARD
5pm: UAE Martyrs Cup (TB) Conditions; Dh90,000; 2,200m
5.30pm: Wathba Stallions Cup (PA) Handicap; Dh70,000; 1,400m
6pm: UAE Matyrs Trophy (PA) Maiden; Dh80,000; 1,600m
6.30pm: Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak (IFAHR) Apprentice Championship (PA) Prestige; Dh100,000; 1,600m
7pm: Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak (IFAHR) Ladies World Championship (PA) Prestige; Dh125,000; 1,600m
8pm: Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Jewel Crown (PA) Group 1; Dh5,000,000; 1,600m
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
5 of the most-popular Airbnb locations in Dubai
Bobby Grudziecki, chief operating officer of Frank Porter, identifies the five most popular areas in Dubai for those looking to make the most out of their properties and the rates owners can secure:
• Dubai Marina
The Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence are popular locations, says Mr Grudziecki, due to their closeness to the beach, restaurants and hotels.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh482 to Dh739
Two bedroom: Dh627 to Dh960
Three bedroom: Dh721 to Dh1,104
• Downtown
Within walking distance of the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and the famous fountains, this location combines business and leisure. “Sure it’s for tourists,” says Mr Grudziecki. “Though Downtown [still caters to business people] because it’s close to Dubai International Financial Centre."
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh497 to Dh772
Two bedroom: Dh646 to Dh1,003
Three bedroom: Dh743 to Dh1,154
• City Walk
The rising star of the Dubai property market, this area is lined with pristine sidewalks, boutiques and cafes and close to the new entertainment venue Coca Cola Arena. “Downtown and Marina are pretty much the same prices,” Mr Grudziecki says, “but City Walk is higher.”
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh524 to Dh809
Two bedroom: Dh682 to Dh1,052
Three bedroom: Dh784 to Dh1,210
• Jumeirah Lake Towers
Dubai Marina’s little brother JLT resides on the other side of Sheikh Zayed road but is still close enough to beachside outlets and attractions. The big selling point for Airbnb renters, however, is that “it’s cheaper than Dubai Marina”, Mr Grudziecki says.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh422 to Dh629
Two bedroom: Dh549 to Dh818
Three bedroom: Dh631 to Dh941
• Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah's proximity to luxury resorts is attractive, especially for big families, says Mr Grudziecki, as Airbnb renters can secure competitive rates on one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh503 to Dh770
Two bedroom: Dh654 to Dh1,002
Three bedroom: Dh752 to Dh1,152
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Company Profile
Name: Thndr
Started: 2019
Co-founders: Ahmad Hammouda and Seif Amr
Sector: FinTech
Headquarters: Egypt
UAE base: Hub71, Abu Dhabi
Current number of staff: More than 150
Funds raised: $22 million
