The challenges seem to be pouring in for Islam Makhachev at the moment. After registering a thumping victory at UFC 311, talks of what’s next for Makhachev began circulating. Speaking about his future, the lightweight champion stated that he was willing to move up to the middleweight division. He also spoke about his desire to face the defending champion, Dricus Du Plessis. However, Du Plessis doesn’t seem to have taken too much of a liking to the call out.
Reacting to Makhachev’s words, the UFC middleweight champion stated that he would easily beat him. Infact, the South African looked confident about “overpowering” the lightweight champ.
“I’ll overpower [Islam] in any situation. I know he walks around heavy, but I walk around heavy. He’s a big lightweight, I’m a big middleweight. There’s a big difference there,” said Du Plessis via ‘FOXSportsAUS.’
Dricus du Plessis reacts to Islam Makhachev saying he'd be willing to move up to 185 and fight him:
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) January 24, 2025
"I'll overpower [Islam] in any situation. I know he walks around heavy, but I walk around heavy. He's a big lightweight, I'm a big middleweight. There's a big difference there."… pic.twitter.com/y3MlZUKG66
However, there is no confirmation yet about whether the bout would take place or not. Afterall, Du Plessis would have to defend his middleweight crown against Sean Strickland first. And even if he does, there are more challenges waiting for Makhachev down the line.
Islam Makhachev Gets Called Out By Ilia Topuria
There has been rising excitement about who Islam Makhachev’s next opponent will be. While he has already been called out by Charles Oliveira, Arman Tsarukyan too, is still on the horizon. Amidst all the noise, there seems to be a fresh rivalry brewing. UFC featherweight champion, Ilia Topuria has expressed his interest towards winning the lightweight crown.
“Islam, if I want to, I can finish you.if I want to, I can knock you out. I’ll make it look easy. Se you soon,” wrote Topuria on X.
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Islam, if I want to, I can finish you.if I want to, I can knock you out. I'll make it look easy. Se you soon 😉
— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) January 19, 2025
Surely, the prospect of a champion vs champion bout is utterly exciting for the MMA fans. However, the final decision rests with the UFC head honcho Dana White.
Also Read: MMA Analyst Details Likeliness Of Ilia Topuria Submitting Islam Makhachev
