Islam Makhachev is undeniably one of the best lightweight champions. While he had previously hinted at pursuing double-champ status, his intentions weren’t entirely clear to fans. Now, Makhachev has made it clear that he plans to target the welterweight title in the future to achieve double-champ status. Even if his teammate Belal Muhammad holds the welterweight belt, Makhachev remains determined to chase the second title.
Makhachev clarified that he has no immediate plans to move up to welterweight, as Belal Muhammad currently holds the 170-pound title. While speaking with popular streamer Adin Ross, who relayed a fan’s question about his ambitions for a second belt, Makhachev reiterated his desire to achieve double-champ status. He acknowledged Belal’s position as welterweight champion and noted that their shared manager, Ali Abdelaziz, would facilitate discussions about the situation.
“This is my dream, but we have Belal there. He’s gonna defend his belt soon. But with Belal, we have the same manager, Ali [Abdelaziz]. We will sit and talk, this is my dream to be double-champ. I don’t want to leave this sport before I take a second belt.”
The lightweight champion has made it clear that he doesn’t want to retire from the sport without securing a second belt. If Muhammad remains the welterweight champion by the time Makhachev decides to move up, the lightweight titleholder may have to face his teammate to achieve his dream of becoming a double champion.
Islam Makhachev Set To Break Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Lightweight Record At UFC 311
Makhachev is set to defend his lightweight title against Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311, aiming to break Khabib Nurmagomedov’s record for most title defenses in the division. Makhachev has already defended his title three times since defeating Charles Oliveira and is currently tied with Khabib, B.J. Penn, and Benson Henderson for the most consecutive defenses.
🤯📊 Islam Makhachev could break the record for the most lightweight title wins in UFC history (4) if he beats Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311 on January 18th. pic.twitter.com/XoMON94qbA
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) December 26, 2024
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A win over Tsarukyan would make Makhachev the record holder. Notably, Khabib, Makhachev’s mentor, has been in his corner throughout his title defenses, which include wins over Alexander Volkanovski and Dustin Poirier. While Tsarukyan presents a tough challenge, Makhachev’s pursuit of history continues.
