It seems like every UFC champion these days is eyeing dual championship status, and with another successful lightweight title defense, Islam Makhachev could make a strong case for moving up or down the bottom in pursuit of a second belt.

While featherweight or welterweight seem like the obvious options, Makhachev’s trainer, Javier Mendez, believes the 155-lb. The champion could compete for the middleweight title at 185 pounds. According to Mendez, it’s simply a question of whether Makhachev wants to make the move.

“I think as long as Belal (Muhammad) is where he is, I don’t think Islam is going to progress,” Mendez said. The Schmo. “…I could be wrong because he could make the decision for himself…”

On Makhachev’s move to middleweight, Mendez “100 percent” believes he could make the move.

“I see (his abilities) in the gym… So yeah, 185 won’t be a problem for him, it’s a question of if he wants it. … Yeah, I would say yeah (he has the ability to become triple champion).”

Makhachev will defend his title for the fourth time against Arman Tsarukyan in the headlining bout at UFC 311 on January 18. No UFC lightweight champion has exceeded three title defenses, including his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedovwho retired with three in 2019.

Tsarukyan is keen to crush Makhachev’s dreams, saying ESPN “(Makhachev) is not as good as people think. People think he is unbeatable, but I knocked him out when I was 22.”

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