UFC’s momentum continues unabated with back-to-back blockbuster events. UFC 311’s memorable performances by Islam Makhachev and Merab Dvalishvili barely concluded before the MMA world’s attention shifted to upcoming fights at UFC 312 and 313. And with the Dagestani registering his record-breaking fourth title defense, excitement is already building regarding his next challenge.

This was visible in his camp as Team Khabib’s celebration of the 155lbs champ’s victory was short-lived, with speculation about his next opponent immediately surfacing. Javier Mendez, speaking with characteristic enthusiasm, quickly addressed the burning question about Makhachev’s future matchup.

Javier Mendez weighs in on Islam Makhachev’s next test

As Makhachev celebrates his victory over Renato Moicano, Team Khabib is already preparing for the next goal. AKA head honcho Javier Mendez, during a Submission Radio interview, was asked who he would like to see Makhachev fight next.

Mendez said, “Uh Justin Gaethje because he hasn’t fought him.” He also vied for Gaethje to beat Dan Hooker at UFC 313 despite his admiration for both fighters. His reason for selecting the former BMF and interim title holder was rooted in past tensions with Hooker. For the unversed, Hooker had previously accused Makhachev of using IV to rehydrate and declared in an It’s Time for Sports issue that he was not scared of Khabib in 2021.

Mendez elaborated, “I’m pulling for him [Justin] I’m not pulling for Dan Hooker. I’m not gonna pull for a guy that’s always against us no way. And Justin Gaethje is a cool a-s dude. And, I’ll tell you this um Dan Hooker has recently, I’m enjoying his talks too in his fighting night he he’s a stud but he hates us so I’m against hooker.”

Additionally, Mendez expressed deep sympathy for Arman Tsarukyan’s injury, which forced him to withdraw from his fight against Makhachev. Drawing parallels to Khabib’s past experiences, the coach emphasized the devastating impact of last-minute injuries on athletes who have trained rigorously for title opportunities.

He stressed the importance of Tsarukyan’s recovery, wanting the Armenian fighter to have a fair chance at a future title shot. Meanwhile, several contenders remain in line to challenge Makhachev, keeping the lightweight division’s competitive landscape dynamic and intriguing. Let’s explore further!

Potential opponents for Islam Makhachev after UFC 311

Makhachev has defended his 155lbs belt for a record fourth time and emerged as the UFC’s most sought-after fighter. As the number one pound-for-pound fighter dominating the lightweight division since 2022, he faces multiple compelling challengers. The champ expressed eagerness to face Tsarukyan, declaring, “No matter, no matter—make 155, let’s go. It’s not my choice, opponent, or what. We have Dana White, the big UFC team. You guys give me the job, that’s it.“

Additionally, he’s open to jumping two weight classes and fighting middleweight champ Dricus Du Plessis to go for a fabled ‘triple-champ status’ considering he has already expressed desires to go for the 170lbs title in the future. Meanwhile, Charles Oliveira and Ilia Topuria are also keen on challenging the lightweight champion.

The division remains dynamic, with multiple intriguing title fight scenarios awaiting the Dagestani fighter. What does the future hold for Makhachev? Share your thoughts in the comments below.