Islam Makhachev, who is the current lightweight champion of the UFC, has his sights set on moving up to the welterweight class if he is able to successfully defend his title.
Makhachev faced Charles Oliveira in his first title bout, which took place in October 2022 at UFC 280. Makhachev won the fight in a dominant fashion, marking his 12th victory for the promotion and ensuring that his winning run would continue for the eighth year.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drRNlyD-bIE
The Russian is currently getting ready to defend his title for the first time in the octagon. Makhachev will defend his title against the current featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski on February 12 at the RAC Arena in Perth.
Ahead of the super fight that will take place between the champions of the two divisions, the current holder of the 155-pound belt has declared his interest in competing in a higher-weight class division in the future indicating his desire to move to the welterweight division.
We’re getting closer to The P4P Showdown! 😤
Next month, it’s 👑@AlexVolkanovski taking on 🏆@MAKHACHEVMMA in Perth! #UFC284 pic.twitter.com/W14L5B9hO5
— UFC_Asia (@UFC_Asia) January 24, 2023
“I like to compete. I like to fight strong fighters. I love big fights. Whoever is the welterweight champion, it’s going to be a huge fight. I’m very interested. But in 2023, there are worthy opponents in my division with whom I still have to meet.” said Islam in an interview with R Sports Russia.
Islam’s friend and former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov laid out a career plan for Makhachev that included five title defenses back in December, but Islam now has bigger and better ambitions. The 31-year-old fighter wants to fight as long as there is a fire in him.
Khabib will NOT be in Islam Makhachev’s corner for his fight against Volk at #UFC284
Per @NikoPajarillo pic.twitter.com/yZIlQRdTUB
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) January 23, 2023
”I will fight. As soon as I feel that it’s not going, it’s not the same, I’ll leave the sport. In the meantime, I feel that everything is working out for me. With each preparation, I show myself better and better. I will go to the end.” Islam further added.
