UFC star Michael Chandler has questioned some of the praise Islam Makhachev has received thus far in his MMA career.

With a 10-fight win streak to his name and a 22-1 record in mixed martial arts, nobody can deny that Islam Makhachev is very good. Ever since kickstarting his pro career as a teenager, he’s been on a mission to become world champion - and he’s pretty close to finally claiming that accolade.

Next month at UFC 280, he’ll go head to head with Charles Oliveira with the UFC lightweight championship being on the line. ‘Do Bronx’ is the de-facto king of the division right now, but a whole lot of fans and pundits feel like Islam is the man who can knock him off of his perch.

Read more: UFC 280: Date, Fight Card, Location, Tickets and more

It’s not going to be easy given that Oliveira has already beaten the likes of Tony Ferguson, Michael Chandler, Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje, whereas Makhachev hasn’t really got that kind of resume behind him.

One of the names on that list, Chandler, hasn’t been shy about his desire to lock horns with the Dagestani sensation at some point in the future, noting that he wants to challenge himself as much as possible during his time in the UFC.

Read more: Islam Makhachev reacts to huge UFC lightweight title fight challenge

During a recent interview, the former Bellator fighter went even further by suggesting there’s been some premature adulation directed towards the 30-year-old.

Video: Michael Chandler questions Islam Makhachev praise

“Nothing against Islam - you say he looks great, he looks unbeatable at times, but he hasn’t really fought anybody. That’s really the truth. He beat number 14 and then he beat Dan Hooker who was on a three or four fight losing streak.

“People will say well, one of your wins was against Dan Hooker so what are you talking about, I fought Dan Hooker at a different time. He had just gone 25 minutes with Dustin Poirier who at that time was the number two lightweight on the planet.

“Islam’s strengths are also Charles’ strengths, and Charles’ striking is better. I just think Charles is more skilled. If Islam can go out there and he actually is that strong, is that dominant with position, then Charles is gonna have a long night, but I just think Charles is too slick.

“I’m not saying he’s not that good, I’m saying we can’t say he’s that good yet - it’s premature praise.”

Chandler’s big test

While Makhachev has his hands full in Abu Dhabi, Michael Chandler will be busy preparing for a return to Madison Square Garden where he will meet Dustin Poirier.

The pair will settle their long-running feud at UFC 281 with the winner being tipped to get a crack at the lightweight champion next year.