Islam Makhachev has been ruling the UFC pound-for-pound list for some time now. The lightweight champion has defended his title thrice and has proved his mettle on multiple occasions. Now, the lightweight fighter wants to move up and potentially challenge the middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis.
Makhachev previously wanted to capture the welterweight title but with Belal Muhammad as the champion, that gate was closed. However, his coach Javier Mendez recently talked about an even more challenging move. According to the legendary coach, Makhachev winning the middleweight title isn’t unachievable.
I 100% feel Islam can do if that’s what he wanted to do. But it’s what he wants to do that will happen, not his ability. I mean, his ability, I see it in the gym. I see it, so I know how good this guy is
Javier Mendez via The Schmo’s YouTube channel
Mendez revealed that Makhachev walks around 179-180 lbs during the training camp and needs to put on some muscles. Something similar was also mentioned by Belal Muhammad, who has trained with the Dagestani champion. According to the welterweight champion, Makhachev could easily beat Dricus Du Plessis to get his double champion status.
Could @MAKHACHEVMMA be @ufc MIDDLEWEIGHT 🏆 #UFC311 FULL INTERVIEW 🔗 pic.twitter.com/Bo4ZKFLkbr
— The Schmo (@TheSchmo312) December 24, 2024
DDP has also reacted to these statements and made fun of the claims. The middleweight champion mentioned that the size difference would be too much for Makhachev to handle. While the Dagestani is one of the most skillful fighters on the roster, there are many doubts about this move. Nevertheless, currently, Makhachev has someone else to focus on.
Islam Makhachev talks about his first fight against rival Arman Tsarukyan
Islam Makhachev is scheduled to defend his lightweight title against top contender Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311. Ahead of the fight, the hype is unreal as this will be the second time these two will meet. Tsarukyan made his UFC debut against Makhachev back in 2019 and was able to give him a tough challenge.
Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan (via Imago)Though he lost, Tsarukyan was very young. Now, he believes that he has the capability to take revenge. On the other hand, Makhachev isn’t that concerned about the challenge. In a recent interview, the champion expressed why the first bout against the Armenian looked so grueling.
It was one of the hardest fights. Of course, but it’s not the toughest fight. Maybe I was underestimating him because short notice, nobody know him and he don’t have name and I never watch his fight. He did well.
Islam Makhachev via ESPN MMA
🙄 Islam Makhachev says that he underestimated Arman Tsarukyan back in 2019 when they fought in Moscow.
🎥 @espnmma pic.twitter.com/m7X9U1xU6P— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) December 17, 2024
Arman Tsarukyan, in his last bout, defeated former champion Charles Oliveira to earn the title opportunity. The Armenian fighter has incredible momentum with him and has promised to expose Makhachev’s invincibility. It would be interesting to see how the rematch between these fighters goes at UFC 311.
Stay Updated!
Join our newsletter to receive exclusive updates and curated insights directly to your inbox.
