Islam Makhachev, with the advice of his esteemed coach Javier Mendez, has announced that he will move to the welterweight division in the future, sparking a lot of interest in the MMA community. He is scheduled to fight Arman Tsarukyan next. But a potential clash with Leon Edwards for the 170-pound title is looming, sparking excitement and speculation. Edwards coach Dave Lovell recently weighed in on this intriguing prospect with intense analysis, examining the potential matchup and providing insight into the challenges Makhachev could face in this higher weight class
Is Makhachev Better than Khabib?
Many fans and experts believe that Makhachev can surpass his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov in terms of skill. Makhachev seems to be a much more skilled fighter than Khabib. But Lovell questions whether Makhachev is ready to beat Leon Edwards. In an interview before Edwards’ title defense against Belal Muhammad, he shared his thoughts on the matter.
Lovell Analysis: Between Makhachev and Edwards
Dave Lovell believes Makhachev can match Edwards’ skills in the Octagon. He questioned Makhachev’s ability to sustain his efforts at the heavyweight division. “Islam is going up to welterweight, will he be big enough? Will that weight have the same effect it has now? I don’t think that’s the case. Has he faced a sharpshooter like Leon? No, he didn’t,” Lovell told source.
Physical Benefits
Lovell emphasized Edwards’ physical advantage over Makhachev. A recent body image of Edwards revealed his size and strength. Lovell said, “In terms of his size, Leon is bigger than him physically, he’s moving on. So again, he will rely on what he knows, which is his boxing. So it’s just sad to see the last guys Leon fought – Usman twice, Colby, all the boxers. Now Belal is a boxer.”
Edwards Wrestling Modifications
Lovell assured fans that Edwards was improving his boxing skills. Edwards has faced and defeated top wrestlers like Kamru Usman and Colby Covington, he pointed out. “Islam, he’s not known for playing. They’re known for wrestling and that’s basically [it]. People don’t understand Leon’s progress [in boxing].”
Despite speculation about a possible fight with Makhachev, Lovell expressed great interest in fighting Conor McGregor. The financial and career advantages of fighting McGregor make it an attractive option for Edwards. “If we’re looking for a fight on the budget, obviously that could pay out above average, it’s likely going to be, a fight with Conor… it’s going to be a great name to have on his CV. Also, it’s a mega-money war,” Lovell added.
Red Panty Night: McGregor vs. Edwards
The term “red panty night,” popularized by UFC legend Chael Sonnen, refers to a profitable fight. Michael Chandler has been waiting to fight McGregor for more than two years, and it reflects financial greed. Lovell also insisted that fighting McGregor would be a major achievement for Edwards. However, McGregor’s uncertain return makes this matchup uncertain.
Looking Ahead
The MMA community is buzzing with talk of possible matches and future plans as UFC 304 draws near. Fans are excited about Makhachev’s switch to welterweight and the prospect of a highly anticipated bout with McGregor, while Leon Edwards is still focused on defending his belt against Belal Muhammad. There is a lot of enthusiasm and expectation for the UFC’s future.
