Islam Makhachev recently addressed questions about a fight against Khamzat Chimaev, focusing on the prospect of a Khamzat Chimaev UFC title fight. While Makhachev is preparing for a welterweight title challenge later this year, Chimaev currently holds the middleweight belt after his commanding victory over Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319. Both fighters continue to draw significant attention as they weigh options for future matchups that could further shake up the UFC divisions.
Makhachev is expected to face reigning welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena later this year, though an official date has not been confirmed. Chimaev has competed multiple times at welterweight in the past and has hinted at a possible return to that division to vie for a second UFC title. The middleweight champ even suggested that defeating Makhachev would quickly elevate his pound-for-pound status to number one.
Makhachev Stresses Avoiding Conflict, Offers Cautious Response on Fight Prospects
When asked about the possibility of facing Chimaev, Islam Makhachev took a measured approach, emphasizing a desire to avoid conflict between their respective camps.
“I’m answering this question here. I don’t want to open the door to any kind of conflict between our people,”
Makhachev said during a press conference.
He continued with a guarded statement about the potential fight, saying, “Well, we will see,” before acknowledging the challenge ahead.
“I have a tough fight ahead…”
Makhachev’s anticipated opponent, Della Maddalena, remains undefeated in the UFC, coming off a decisive win over Belal Muhammad to claim the welterweight title at UFC 315. A showdown between Makhachev and Chimaev would be highly significant, given their immense popularity—with each boasting over 10 million Instagram followers—and the combined 30-fight winning streak they bring into the cage. The stakes and fan interest around such a matchup would be enormous.
Islam Makhachev on a potential fight against Khamzat Chimaev: “I’ll answer this here. I don’t want to open the door to any kind of conflict between our people. Well, we will see. I have a tough fight ahead of me.” — Islam Makhachev, UFC Fighter
Reflections on Chimaev’s Title Victory and What Surprised Makhachev
Makhachev also shared insights on what impressed him during Khamzat Chimaev’s dominant performance at UFC 319. Chimaev set several records throughout the five-round bout against du Plessis, securing nearly 22 minutes of control on the ground, landing 12 takedowns, and throwing 529 total strikes.
“I was impressed by his domination,”
Makhachev remarked about Chimaev’s title win.
He noted how Chimaev appeared to conserve energy during the fight, not pressing too hard or unleashing powerful strikes, with the clear objective of securing the championship. According to Makhachev, Chimaev could have pushed harder for a finish but instead maintained control.
“But, I was surprised he took him down so easily and was able to control him for so long,”
Makhachev added, highlighting the ease with which Chimaev imposed his game plan throughout the fight.
Implications for UFC and Future Matchups
The ongoing discussions about a Khamzat Chimaev UFC title fight against Islam Makhachev have generated considerable speculation surrounding the future of the lightweight and welterweight divisions. With Makhachev preparing for a complex challenge against Della Maddalena and Chimaev having recently captured the middleweight belt, the possibility of these stars meeting would bring together two fighters with impressive win streaks and vast fanbases, potentially creating one of the UFC’s most anticipated matchups in recent years.
The cautious statements from Makhachev suggest that while the fight remains uncertain, both athletes are focused on their immediate challenges before considering a direct confrontation. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see whether a fight between these two champions can be arranged, which could have a major impact on the pound-for-pound rankings and the history of UFC title fights.