Islam Makhachev in heavier divisions? Khamzat Chimaev believes it could be a mistake

Swedish fighter has doubts about the performance of the current lightweight champion if he wants to move up to UFC welterweight

Chimaev at UFC 308 press conference. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram / Khamzat Chimaev

Chimaev has doubts about Makhachev's performance in the UFC welterweight division. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram / Khamzat Shimaev

Islam makhachev remains unbeatable in the UFC lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg). The victory by submission still in the first round against Renato Moicano in the main fight of UFC 311, last Saturday (18), completed his fourth successful belt defense in the organization. With triumphs over most of the opponents in the division, what is left now for the Russian fighter in the Ultimate? Move up a division? If it depends on the opinion of Khamzat Shimaev Makhachev better stay in his comfort zone.

In recent times, Islam has been considering the possibility of moving up to the welterweight category (up to 77kg). The idea of ​​being a champion in two UFC divisions will further cement the champion's name at the top of the organization's pound-for-pound rankings.

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Magomed Ankalaev is a standout in the UFC light heavyweight division. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter/UFC

But Chimaev believes the move could backfire. Currently third in the middleweight rankings (up to 83,9kg), the Swedish fighter has already been through the welterweight division and stated during an appearance on the 'Aslanbek Badaev' channel on YouTube, that the only one of the 'Dagestan clan' who would succeed in higher divisions would be Khabib Nurmagomedov, who is retired from MMA.

“If any of them [Russian fighters] were to move up [to a division] and compete at 77kg or 83,9kg it would be Khabib. As for Islam, I have my doubts. He struggled in the fight against Dustin poirier”, Chimaev said.

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At 33, Islam makhachev He hasn't lost a fight since 2015 and is riding an incredible streak of 15 consecutive victories in the UFC. This doesn't impress Chimaev, who has 14 victories and remains undefeated in his MMA career.

ISLAM MAKHAHEV UFC 311 TWITTER UFC NEWS

Islam makhachev won Renato Moicano No. UFC 311. Photo: TWITTER UFC NEWS

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