King Green On Feeling Islam Makhachev's Strength

King Green says grappling with Islam Makhachev felt unlike any opponent he has faced in his 54-fight career.

Green, who lost to Makhachev by first-round stoppage in 2022, told fans on Arnold Barboza's Kick stream that the strength difference during their bout reminded him of competitors who use performance-enhancing drugs. The lightweight veteran stepped in on short notice to replace Beneil Dariush for what became Makhachev's final non-title fight before the Russian claimed the championship.

The 38-year-old went further, alleging that some UFC titleholders continue to use banned substances despite testing protocols. Per Sherdog, Green said he has trained with multiple high-level fighters who showed similar strength advantages. Green stopped short of naming other athletes, but insisted he could distinguish natural ability from chemical enhancement based on decades of mat experience.

Makhachev dominated from the opening bell when they met, securing multiple takedowns and landing heavy ground strikes before the referee waved off the contest in round one. The Dagestani fighter has since defended the lightweight title four times and extended his winning streak to 15 fights.

Green rides a four-fight winning streak into his next appearance against Esteban Ribovics at UFC 332 on Oct. 3 at Delta Center in Salt Lake City. Three of those victories came by finish.