Islam Makhachev is ready to move from lightweight. Although he has long hinted at his welterweight ambitions, he has yet to focus on an opponent. Now, Makhachev’s team seems to focus on Belal Muhammad and Leon Edwards.
Javier Mendez Shares Ideas
Speaking on the podcast , the coach of Dagestan Javier Mendez shared the latest news. Although he is close to Khabib Nurmagomedov, Makhachev is now focusing on Muhammad’s face. Take a closer look at what the famous MMA coach had to say.
Problem With Belal Muhammad
In the interview, host Denis Shlukaav asked about the UFC’s reaction to Makhachev’s plans to compete at welterweight. In particular, he asked Makhachev if he would challenge the Muhammad vs. Edwards for the title. Mendez didn’t hesitate, saying that Makhachev wanted to use every opportunity, especially against Muhammad.
Mendes revealed that “Remember the Name” Muhammad is training with Makhachev’s team. This friendship will make you feel better. – Beral trains us, so he is our brother. We want him to win, “said Mendez. However, Mendez said that Muhammad could be Makhachev’s opponent in the future.
-Whoever he wants to fight, I don’t think Islam is good. “It’s when the UFC wants him to fight,” Mendes said. Even though they are brothers, Makhachev always favors Muhammad. But Mohammad is not the only target on Makhachev’s radar.
Makhachev Wants Leon Edwards
There are reports that Makhachev is looking for a match with Leon Edwards in the past. However, UFC director Dana White did not get involved, wanting Makhachev to remain in the lightweight division. Makhachev remained and continued to express his desire to move up a division. Although big names in the softball class like Justin Gaethje are waiting for him, Makhachev says he doesn’t have a chance there.

Former MMA fighter Chael Sonnen praised the challenges of the Edwards-Makhachev fight. Sonnen emphasized that the UFC does not want to leave his lightweight belt vacant. “Islam’s biggest problem from 55 to 70 is that once he wins at 70, he never goes back to 55,” Sonnen said. This dilemma may make Makhachev’s future uncertain, despite his best wishes.
Fans Reacted to Makhachev’s Bold Plan
The MMA community paid attention to Makhachev’s move to welterweight. Fans are excited about his chances against heavyweights like Muhammad and Edwards, but are divided. One fan wrote on a source: “Makhachev vs. Muhammad is an epic fight. can’t wait more! This can change everything.
Seniority and Competition
The strength of the conflict between Makhachev and Muhammad is very disappointing considering their current training. Despite the bromance, Makhachev is ready to face Muhammad in the Octagon. This adds an emotional dimension to the expected fight as both fighters play up their professional and personal relationships.
The Road Ahead
There will also be big changes in the UFC landscape as Makhachev prepares for a potential fight at welterweight. Whether he faces Muhammad, Edwards, or another fighter, this fight is sure to be explosive. These results could change the future of the lightweight and welterweight divisions.
Islam Makhachev’s desire to win the welterweight division, despite being tied with Khabib, has sparked drama in the UFC. Revelations about his training and ability to face Belal Muhammad and Leon Edwards added to the excitement. While fans are waiting for the official announcement, the MMA world is still there, preparing for the next chapter of Makhachev’s career.
