As the landscape of the UFC evolves, champions are increasingly eyeing the coveted double-championship glory. Following his recent successful defense of the lightweight title, Islam Makhachev is setting his sights on new horizons, contemplating the possibility of adding a third belt to his collection.

A Potential Move to Middleweight?

While many anticipate that Makhachev could transition to either featherweight or welterweight, his coach, Javier Mendez, has introduced an unexpected twist: a possible jump to the middleweight division at 185 lbs. Mendez, confident in Makhachev’s training and skills, suggests that moving up in weight may not pose a significant challenge. He believes that the lightweight champion’s experience and physical attributes could allow him to thrive in a higher weight class.

However, Mendez cautioned that this decision lies entirely with Makhachev. The competitive dynamics of the divisions, especially the presence of contenders like Belal Muhammad in welterweight, may influence Makhachev’s future in higher weight classes. Mendez emphasized that Makhachev’s progression could be impacted by the current landscape of contenders in the UFC.

UFC 311: The Fight for Legacy

Looking ahead, Makhachev is scheduled to defend his lightweight title against Arman Tsarukyan on January 18 at UFC 311. This highly anticipated matchup holds significant weight, as Makhachev could break a UFC milestone with a successful title defense. No lightweight champion has ever achieved more than three consecutive defenses, a feat currently held by his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov. Tsarukyan, who previously defeated Makhachev in their youth, will be looking to disrupt his aspirations for further greatness.

Islam Makhachev: The Journey to Triple Champion Status in the UFC

Makhachev’s transition into a potential triple champion status could come down to his fighting style, which sets him apart from his competition. These key attributes make Makhachev a formidable force in any division:

Versatile Striking Ability: Makhachev is renowned for his effective striking, especially his precision and power.
Superior Grappling Skills: Drawing from his sambo and wrestling roots, Makhachev can dominate opponents on the ground, controlling the fight with ease.
Fight IQ: His strategic approach to each bout makes him adaptable, adjusting tactics as necessary to outsmart opponents.

The Pros and Cons of Moving Up

As Makhachev contemplates his next move, there are both pros and cons to transitioning to a higher weight class:

Pros:

Increased Recognition: Pursuing titles in multiple divisions could greatly enhance his legacy, establishing Makhachev as a UFC legend.
Financial Incentives: Higher-profile fights in larger weight classes often come with lucrative payouts, providing Makhachev with significant financial rewards.

Cons:

Weight Class Challenges: Competing against larger opponents presents difficulties, particularly in grappling exchanges, where size and strength come into play.
Sustainability of Performance: Adjusting to a new weight class involves changes to diet and training, which may impact Makhachev’s performance, especially in grappling-heavy exchanges.

What’s Next for Makhachev?

As Makhachev heads into this crucial fight with Tsarukyan, the outcome could heavily shape his career path. Will he continue to defend his lightweight title, breaking records and solidifying his place in UFC history? Or will he take the risk of stepping up to new weight classes, potentially achieving triple champion status and forever changing the UFC landscape?

The UFC world is watching with bated breath, as Makhachev’s next steps could rewrite the future of the sport.

Will Makhachev Break Records or Build a New Legacy? Stay tuned, as his journey to UFC greatness continues.