Former UFC heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier has expressed his belief that current lightweight champion Islam Makhachev should defend his title against former two-division champion Conor McGregor in his next fight. Cormier made the argument on his ESPN show "DC & RC," highlighting the potential financial and promotional benefits of such a matchup.

Makhachev (25-1 MMA, 14-1 UFC) recently retained his lightweight title at UFC 294 with a stunning first-round head kick knockout victory over Alexander Volkanovski. Originally scheduled to face Charles Oliveira for a rematch, Makhachev had top contender Mateusz Gamrot as a backup at the event.

However, Cormier suggests that a fight with McGregor (22-6 MMA, 10-4 UFC) would be the ultimate test and opportunity for Makhachev to elevate his status as a dominant champion. The former champion emphasizes the impact of facing McGregor, citing the career boosts experienced by fighters like Dustin Poirier and Khabib Nurmagomedov after defeating the Irish superstar.

"Because look at what beating Conor McGregor did for Dustin Poirier, look at what it did for Khabib Nurmagomedov," Cormier explained. "And we're not even talking about all the other levels at which this just makes sense."

Cormier believes that Makhachev’s potential clash with McGregor makes both financial and promotional sense for the UFC. He points out the history between McGregor and Makhachev's mentor, Nurmagomedov, as well as McGregor's stature as the biggest star in mixed martial arts.

According to Cormier, a fight between Makhachev and McGregor is a "no-lose situation." If McGregor were to emerge victorious, he would reclaim his position as the sport's biggest star and champion. On the other hand, if Makhachev were to win, he would potentially become the next Nurmagomedov in terms of star power.

The lightweight division, known for its fierce competition, would undoubtedly benefit from a matchup between Makhachev and McGregor. While McGregor is currently scheduled to face Michael Chandler following their stint as coaches on Season 31 of "The Ultimate Fighter," Cormier's argument provides an intriguing alternative storyline.

As of now, there has been no official response from Makhachev's camp or McGregor regarding the possibility of a future fight. Fans and pundits alike will be eagerly awaiting news from the UFC on the lightweight champion's next title defense and whether it will indeed involve the return of "The Notorious."

In the world of mixed martial arts, business decisions often play a significant role in matchmaking. Cormier's recommendation of a Makhachev-McGregor showdown is sure to ignite discussions and debates among fans, further intensifying the anticipation surrounding the future of the lightweight division.