Islam Makhachev Ready To Knock Out Alex Pereira Despite 50 lb Difference A Nightmare For UFC Champions

Islam Makhachev is no stranger to dominance in the UFC, and his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, is confident that the Russian phenom will continue his reign, even taking on the towering Alex Pereira. Despite the significant 50 lb weight difference between the two UFC champions, Abdelaziz believes Makhachev can not only dethrone Pereira but also conquer the middleweight and light heavyweight divisions in the future.

Ali Abdelaziz’s High Expectations for Makhachev’s Career

Abdelaziz, who has managed the careers of UFC legends like Khabib Nurmagomedov, Henry Cejudo, and Kamaru Usman, has always had a clear vision for Makhachev’s career. The UFC pound-for-pound number one will defend his 155 lb lightweight title against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311 on January 18, 2025, and Abdelaziz predicts that Makhachev will glide past this challenge. According to Abdelaziz, it won’t be long before Makhachev moves up in weight classes, aiming to prove that no fighter from 155 lbs to 185 lbs stands a chance against him.

The Unlikely Showdown: Islam Makhachev vs. Alex Pereira

A fight between Islam Makhachev and Alex Pereira seems almost impossible at first glance, given the substantial size difference between the two athletes. Pereira, who moved up to light heavyweight in 2023, has been unstoppable, with five consecutive wins, including triumphs over four former champions. However, Abdelaziz is adamant that Makhachev has the tools to overcome this massive challenge.

While the weight gap may seem like a barrier, Abdelaziz believes that Makhachev’s skill set is superior enough to handle Pereira’s power. “I believe Islam Makhachev can beat Alex Pereira at 205 lbs. I swear to Allah,” Abdelaziz boldly states. According to him, Makhachev would simply need to take Pereira to the ground, where his wrestling and grappling skills would dominate, ultimately leading to a submission victory.

Islam Makhachev’s Unmatched Skills in the UFC

Abdelaziz is unequivocal about Makhachev’s place in UFC history. He claims that Islam Makhachev has the potential to be the greatest fighter in UFC history, even surpassing Jon Jones. He points to Makhachev’s exceptional fighting abilities, noting that skill for skill, Makhachev is one of the most complete fighters the world has ever seen.

Makhachev has proven himself time and again, finishing seven of his last eight opponents, including the monumental victory over Alexander Volkanovski, the pound-for-pound number one at the time. This level of dominance sets Makhachev apart from other top fighters, including Jon Jones, whom Abdelaziz respects but believes Makhachev is superior to in terms of the caliber of competition he’s faced.

Makhachev’s Path to Legacy

Abdelaziz highlights that Makhachev does not settle for narrow victories or controversial decisions. While Jon Jones has faced criticism for taking part in closely contested bouts, Makhachev has consistently finished his opponents in dominant fashion. From Thiago Santos to Charles Oliveira, Makhachev makes his opponents look like they don’t belong in the same octagon.

As Makhachev prepares for another title defense, Abdelaziz is convinced that the Russian fighter will continue to crush his opposition, making it look easy. With his wrestling, striking, and fight IQ, Makhachev seems destined to solidify his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.

What’s Next for Makhachev?

Makhachev’s ambitions stretch far beyond his current reign as UFC lightweight champion. His manager’s unwavering confidence suggests that Makhachev will continue to conquer new challenges across multiple weight classes. From dethroning Alex Pereira to possibly moving up to the welterweight or light heavyweight division, the future looks exceedingly bright for the pound-for-pound king.

As UFC fans eagerly await his next move, there is little doubt that Islam Makhachev’s name will continue to resonate at the very top of the MMA world.