Islam Makhachev could surprise and move up two categories in the UFC, says coach

Javier Mendez, coach of Islam Makhachev . Photo: Instagram / Javier Mendez

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Few stories are as impressive as that of Islam Makhachev . The Russian has already established himself as one of the biggest names in the UFC's lightweight division (up to 70,3kg), but he could go further, jump two weight classes and fight in the middleweight division (up to 83,9kg). At least that's what Javier Mendez, his coach at the American Kickboxing Academy (AKA), assures.

For Javier Mendez, coach and mentor of the current champion and other names like Khabib Nurmagomedov , it's not just a possibility—it's something Islam has the ability to do, should he decide to pursue that path. In a conversation with journalist The Schmo, Mendez was direct. For the coach, Makhachev's skill is unquestionable, which makes the possibility viable.

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“I 100% believe Islam can do it if he wants to. I see what he does in the gym, guys. The 83,9-pound weight would not be a problem,” he said.

Makhachev currently weighs about 81 pounds during training, which is significantly below the middleweight weight limit of 83,9 pounds. But Mendez knows it’s an adjustment that could be made over time.

“If he were to go to middleweight, he would have to put on more muscle mass, of course. But that’s not something he can’t do. The question isn’t about his ability, but about what he wants for his career. The transition to middleweight is an option he could consider, but it’s up to him. He knows what he’s capable of,” he explained.

Islam Makhachev prepares for rematch at UFC 311

Islam Makhachev has a clear mission: to maintain his reign in the lightweight division. The next step is UFC 311 in January 2024, where he will face Arman Tsarukyan , who is seeking revenge for a defeat suffered in 2019.

Javier Mendez is no ordinary name in MMA. As the founder of the American Kickboxing Academy (AKA), he shaped the careers of champions like Khabib Nurmagomedov , Daniel Cormier , and Cain Velasquez . And his partnership with Makhachev has been one of the most successful of his long career in the sport.

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