UFC 259 live blog: Islam Makhachev vs. Drew Dober

This is the UFC 259 live blog for Islam Makhachev vs. Drew Dober, a lightweight main card fight on Saturday’s event at UFC APEX in Las Vegas.

A meeting of two top talents at 155 pounds, the bout could set the winner up for a top-ranked opponent. Makhachev, currently No. 14 in the UFC’s rankings, has beaten six consecutive opponents on his most recent run and his 7-1 overall in eight outings. Most recently, he outpointed submission grappling ace Davi Ramos. A training partner of Khabib Nurmagomedov, he has been called the next champion by the lightweight champ.

In Makhachev’s way is Dober, who is 6-1 in his past seven outings. That includes a three-fight winning streak comprised entirely of knockouts. Most recently, he stopped Alexander Hernandez this past May to pick up his second consecutive performance bonus. Currently unranked in the top-15, a win over Makhachev would give the argument he needs to face more esteemed opposition.

Check out the UFC 259 live blog below.