Islam Makhachev is set to return to the octagon at UFC 311, defending his lightweight title in one of the most highly anticipated fights of the year against Arman Tsarukyan. As the reigning champion, Makhachev has solidified his place at the top of the division with dominant performances and an ever-evolving skill set. His next opponent poses a fresh challenge, but Makhachev’s blend of elite wrestling, sharp striking, and submission expertise makes him a tough matchup for anyone. Since capturing the belt, Makhachev has been on a mission to prove he is the best lightweight in the world.

His disciplined approach, honed under the guidance of Khabib Nurmagomedov, has made him nearly unstoppable. Fans expect nothing less than another masterclass in grappling and pressure as he looks to extend his winning streak and continue his reign. Makhachev’s opponent, hungry for a shot at gold, brings their own unique strengths to the fight, promising a clash of styles that could deliver fireworks. UFC 311 is shaping up to be another milestone in Makhachev’s career as he inches closer to cementing his legacy.

All eyes will be on him on fight night, as fans eagerly await to see if Makhachev can defend his belt. However, his manager feels Makhachev is already one of the best in the sports. Ali Abdelaziz in a recent interview with MMA Junkie made some claims which might come as a surprise to many out there. MMA On Point shared the claims on their page and the caption read, “I believe 155, 170, 185, I think Islam [Makhachev] can beat anybody at any given day… I think Islam will beat Alex Pereira at 205 [too].”

Alex Pereira is one of the scariest fighters in the UFC at the moment. In his last three fights, he has knocked out all of his opponents slowly inching his way toward greatness. Pereira is also a former two-division champion and competes in a division far different from the Dagestani fighter. The fans seem to have taken notice of the comments and shared their honest opinion on the whole.

Fans feel Islam Makhachev will find it tough against Alex Pereira after manager’s bold claims

Fighters moving to a new weight class has never been a new thing in the UFC. However, fighting in a completely new weight class is a tough challenge for every fighter. Makhachev, for a long time, has been eyeing a move to a new division in order to become a two-division champion. However, a move to the light-heavyweight division might just be too much to handle for the Dagestani fighter. The fans are also aware of it and made their sentiments known online.

Makhachev might privately think about the challenge of moving up to fight Pereira, but he wouldn’t openly call for it. Ali, on the other hand, seems to make these types of statements without hesitation, creating unnecessary drama as one user commented, “Bruh Islam most likely thinks this but will never say it cause he ain’t stupid. Why tf Ali always gotta be saying stupid shit😭 bro is legit the only problem with Islam I stg.”

Another user pointed out how Alexander Volkanovski knocked down Islam Makhachev during their fight. Volkanovksi is fairly smaller in size in comparison to Pereira and reminded everyone, “If Volkanovski can drop Islam what do you think Pereira would do?” 

2024 has finally come to an end and the predictions for 2025 have started to flow in. But one fan isn’t quite impressed and commented, “We already have the worst MMA take of 2025.” Pereira for a long time has been criticized for not having a good ground game. Only if this fight ever happens Makhachev will have an edge feels one user, “Hot take but if Islam can get him to the ground it’s over.” While ‘Poatan’ doesn’t have a good ground game, his striking skills are second to none and he can knockout Makhachev easily feels one user, “He’s getting knocked out .smh” 

Ali Abdelaziz has been known to make some bold claims in the past as well. He has always been vocal about his fighters and feels they are the best. However, this time, he might have gone a bit far, feels one user, “Ali just says anything nowadays.” This particular prediction has not gone well with many users. One such user kind of mocked the Dagestani camp and prompted him to make a move to the heavyweight division next and commented, “I’d even say Islam beats Aspinall at heavyweight.” 

Currently, the champion is focused on defending his title for the fourth time and is looking to create a new record. However, this particular move might just never happen as he will have to put on a massive amount of weight. But only if this ever happens will this be the correct choice for Islam Makhachev. Who do you think will win between the two? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.