Islam Makhachev once again proved his dominance at UFC 311, delivering a performance that solidified his status as perhaps the best 155fer in UFC history. Successfully defending his lightweight title, Makhachev dismantled Renato Moicano with a clinical display of grappling. With this victory, the Dagestani phenom has now defended his lightweight title four times, the most in this division.

However, Makhachev’s ambitions don’t stop there. He’s now eyeing a move to the welterweight division, sparking speculation about his pursuit of a second championship. In a recent interview, his coach, Javier Mendez, shared insights into the potential move. According to Mendez, timing and the right matchups will play a key role in determining when and if Makhachev makes the leap to challenge for welterweight gold. Let’s see what he had to say!

Javier Mendez weighs in on Islam Makhachev’s desires to become double champ

Islam Makhachev appears poised to take on an even greater challenge: becoming a dual-division champion. After multiple successful defenses of his lightweight title and solidifying his dominance, Makhachev is setting his sights on the welterweight division. The prospect of testing himself at 170 pounds is creating a buzz in the MMA world, and for good reason. In recent interviews, Makhachev has expressed a desire to face bigger, stronger opponents and explore new challenges.

One of the driving factors behind this potential move is the grueling weight cut to 155 pounds, which Makhachev has often mentioned as a significant hurdle. Competing at 170 pounds would allow him to perform at his physical peak. However, there’s a major obstacle: Belal Muhammad, the current welterweight champion. ‘Team Khabib’ and Muhammad share a close bond and have both made it clear they would never fight each other.

Javier Mendez, Makhachev’s coach, echoed this sentiment in a recent interview on Submission Radio. The AKA head honcho discussed the only scenario that could open the door for Makhachev’s move to welterweight. “So let’s see what happens, you know. But if for some reason something happens or Belal moves up in weight after, you know, hopefully, he beats Shavkat—if he does—then maybe he’ll go up in weight. And then we will go after the 170. I would definitely like that. That would be great and [an] ideal situation.”

However, the champion is facing a barrage of callouts from the featherweight champion Ilia Topuria. Just like Makhachev, ‘El Matador’ is also looking to become a dual-division champion. He has lately announced about making a move to the lightweight division and wants to fight the champion. The Spanish-Georgian is trying his best to get under the skin of the champion and this time he has made serious claims.

Ilia Topuria is brimming with confidence about his chances against Makhachev

Ilia Topuria’s meteoric rise in the UFC has been nothing short of extraordinary. Known for concussive power, Topuria has rapidly ascended to the top of the featherweight division. Now, he’s set his sights on Islam Makhachev, boldly claiming to be leagues ahead of the reigning lightweight champion.

Makhachev, fresh off his dominant D’Arce choke finish at UFC 311, showcased why he’s widely regarded as one of the best fighters in the world. However, Topuria didn’t seem impressed. He took to X to challenge the Dagestani champion, writing: “Islam, if I want to, I can finish you. If I want to, I can knock you out. I’ll make it look easy. See you soon.”

Despite the bold callout, Makhachev has shown little interest in entertaining the matchup. Having already faced featherweights in the past, including his iconic twin wins over Alexander Volkanovski, Makhachev sees no value in fighting another 145fer. For the lightweight champion, the lack of a meaningful reward or progression in facing the Georgian-Spaniard makes the fight unappealing.

Instead, Makhachev remains focused on loftier goals, such as moving up in weight to pursue a second title and further solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest fighters in MMA history. What do you think lies ahead for Islam Makhachev? Will he continue his reign at lightweight, pursue a welterweight title, or revisit the idea of a fight with Topuria? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!