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Islam Makhachev has his sights set on making history. Fresh off his fourth successful lightweight title defense at UFC 311, where he submitted Renato Moicano in the first round, the pound-for-pound king is entertaining the possibility of becoming a two-division champion.
Makhachev’s dominant victory not only broke the UFC record for lightweight title defenses but also fueled talks of him moving up in weight to chase a second title. The Dagestani fighter is clear about his ambition:
“I told them I’m not leaving this sport without a second belt,” Makhachev declared during the UFC 311 post-fight press conference.
While Makhachev isn’t in a rush to make the jump, he remains open to seizing the opportunity if it arises.
“I need the second belt to talk like, ‘I’m the greatest,’” he said. “I’ll defend my belt as many times as the UFC wants, but when the chance comes, I want to be a double champion.”
Among potential opponents, Makhachev appears to have a specific target in mind: current middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis.
“If Dana White sends me the contract, I’ll fight him,” Makhachev asserted. “I swear, I’ll fight him.”
However, Makhachev knows that timing is critical. With du Plessis scheduled to defend his title against Sean Strickland at UFC 312 and Khamzat Chimaev waiting in the wings for the winner, Makhachev’s middleweight aspirations might require patience.
When asked about venturing beyond 185 pounds to challenge light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira, Makhachev humorously dismissed the idea.
“No, it’s too much,” he laughed. “I need the [Daniel Cormier] diet program to be 200 pounds.”
For now, it seems Makhachev will continue to reign over the lightweight division, ready to face whoever the UFC deems worthy.
“Just send me the contract. I need a new target,” he stated.
As the UFC’s top pound-for-pound fighter, Makhachev’s hunger for greatness shows no signs of slowing. Whether he stays at 155 pounds or ventures into new territory, the Dagestani star is poised to keep fans captivated.