Between the Links: Reaction to Islam Makhachev’s win at UFC 330, Din Thomas; Plus, previewing busy weekend

Islam Makhachev successfully defended his UFC welterweight title against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330, but the champion's narrow victory has sparked significant debate throughout the MMA community about what the performance means for his legacy and future direction.

On a new edition of Between the Links, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew lead the panel discussion on the implications of Makhachev's record-setting win and explore potential next opponents—whether that's Carlos Prates, Michael Morales, or another top contender. The show also examines Mackenzie Dern's dominant performance over Gillian Robertson and addresses the public exchange between Din Thomas and Robertson that followed.

Beyond the championship picture, the panel previews several other fights on the horizon, including UFC Sacramento this weekend headlined by Anthony Hernandez vs. Gregory Rodrigues, PFL Tampa featuring what the promotion has billed as Cris Cyborg's final fight, and upcoming announcements from RAF Cleveland and UFC 333. Listeners can submit questions throughout the episode as the hosts tackle a loaded weekend of MMA action and debate the biggest storylines across the sport.