I. Makhachev is the next challenger for the welterweight title. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
In search of the welterweight belt (up to 77,1 kg), Islam makhachev has already been approached by many fans and professionals so that, if he wins a second belt, he can start dreaming about the possibility of a third. While there is hope, the Russian is seen as a potential challenger Khamzat Shimaev, current middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg).
Even though he hasn't ruled out the possibility of facing the Emirati, Makhachev doesn't have the support of his manager Ali Abdelaziz. According to the veteran, the matchup makes no sense due to the significant physical advantage Chimaev would have over the Russian.
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"That's never going to happen. Khamzat is too big, I don't think he can make it back to welterweight. They know each other, they're from the same region, and honestly, this fight makes no sense at all," Ali said in an interview with Submission Radio.
Following his speech, the businessman praised the great work done by the Emirati in his journey through the UFC.
"Maybe if Chimaev moves up a weight class, to light heavyweight, it would make more sense. But Khamzat has a lot of opponents to overcome before he even considers changing divisions. But I think he'll defend his belt (...) he's more mature, he has good people around him, he'll do well. You can't deny that he's the best middleweight on the planet right now," he concluded.
In preparation to face Jack Della MaddalenaIslam is awaiting the official date for the fight. The fighter is hoping to win a second title, while Chimaev has just become middleweight champion and will begin his first season as king of the division.
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