Islam Makhachev’s Double Champ Dreams Shattered UFC Has No Plans for Belal Muhammad or Dricus Du Plessis
Being the Pound-for-Pound (P4P) #1 fighter in the UFC comes with an immense amount of pressure. Islam Makhachev, with his precise fighting style, displayed just that when he effortlessly submitted Renato Moicano in the first round, defending his lightweight title for a record-setting fourth time. This victory sent shockwaves through the MMA world, and immediately, former champ Charles Oliveira claimed he would be next in line to dethrone Makhachev. However, UFC President Dana White has a different plan for the Russian-born champion.
UFC’s Mysterious Plans for Makhachev
In a statement from Ali Abdelaziz, Makhachev’s manager, it was revealed that Charles Oliveira, Arman Tsarukyan, or Ilias were not part of the UFC’s future plans for Makhachev. The lightweight champ is on a mission, and according to Abdelaziz, “The UFC has a completely different plan for Islam that doesn’t include Oliveira, Arman, or Ilias. But it’s an unpredictable sport, and you don’t know what could happen.” So, who’s next for Makhachev? Well, his potential double champ journey seems to exclude clashes with Belal Muhammad and Dricus Du Plessis, due to both personal and professional reasons.
Makhachev’s Bold Vision: A 165 lbs Division?
Islam’s future plans have raised eyebrows. He made it clear that he would not compete against welterweight champ Belal Muhammad, citing a strong friendship. He also stated that he won’t retire until he becomes a double champ. In fact, rumors have been swirling that the UFC could introduce a new 165 lbs division, a move that would shake up the lightweight and welterweight divisions. While this is far from confirmed, many insiders believe this change could be a major stepping stone for Makhachev’s ambitious plans.
The UFC’s Potential Structural Changes
The welterweight limit might be bumped up to 175 lbs, addressing the awkward gap between lightweight and welterweight while making it easier for fighters to manage their weight cuts. While UFC President Dana White has remained silent on the subject, whispers within the promotion suggest that the UFC is preparing for something huge for Islam Makhachev. Fans and analysts are questioning whether these changes would create a more dynamic competitive landscape in MMA.
Makhachev’s Desire for a Middleweight Title
During a post-fight press conference, Islam Makhachev expressed his ambition to become a three-division champ, stating he would be willing to fight Dricus Du Plessis for the middleweight title. “Yeah, I can be a three-division [champion]. Just give me the chance. I will fight him. If they give me the chance, I will fight him,” said Makhachev, clearly fired up. His confidence and ambitions for UFC dominance have sparked debates amongst fans, but is this realistic?
Fans’ Mixed Reactions to Makhachev’s 165 lbs Division
Speculation surrounding the introduction of a 165 lbs division has divided the fanbase. Some argue that the 15-pound gap between lightweight and welterweight makes the new division necessary, while others caution that it would be too easy for fighters to cut weight and move to the new class. One fan shared their concerns: “15 lbs between the two weight classes is kinda rough. I don’t hate this idea, but 5 lbs between the new division and welterweight feels too close.” On the flip side, some fans strongly oppose the idea, stating, “Dana is not going to fix something that isn’t broken.”
The UFC’s Future and Makhachev’s Ambitious Path
While Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan continue to aim for the lightweight title, Makhachev’s path forward remains uncertain. The possibility of a new weight class could drastically alter the future of the UFC. One fan suggested a unique challenge for Makhachev: “Fight Conor at 165 lbs.” With speculation running wild and the UFC’s silence on structural changes, the future of Islam Makhachev remains one of the most exciting narratives in MMA.
Conclusion: What’s Next for Islam Makhachev?
Islam Makhachev’s journey is far from over, and UFC fans are eagerly awaiting what’s next for the lightweight champion. Will the 165 lbs division become a reality? Will Makhachev dominate not just lightweight but also welterweight and middleweight? Only time will tell. What are your thoughts on Makhachev’s ambitions? Share your opinion in the comments below and stay tuned for more updates on his journey to becoming a double champ!
