UFC Hall of Famer Michael Bisping believes Islam Makhachev should target a third division title before retiring.
UFC Hall of Famer Michael Bisping recently shared his thoughts on the future career path of pound for pound great Islam Makhachev, suggesting a historic move up in weight.
The discussion surrounding Makhachev comes as the fighter revealed on social media that his next bouts will be among the final appearances of his legendary professional mixed martial arts career.
According to information published by bjpenn, Bisping outlines a potential championship path that could cement the champion as a rare triple division titleholder in the organization.
Michael Bisping outlines triple champ path for Islam Makhachev
Bisping released a video on his YouTube channel to react to the news that the lightweight champion is nearing the end of his active fighting days in the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
The analyst and former champion strongly believes that a middleweight title opportunity should be well within reach if Makhachev continues his dominant winning streak inside the Octagon.
The envisioned timeline involves securing victories at welterweight before ultimately challenging for the 185 pound middleweight belt against the reigning champion of that division.
Weighing potential title defenses and division moves
Makhachev recently stepped away from negotiations to place his welterweight title on the line during the upcoming UFC 336 headliner event, leaving fans wondering about the next steps.
Current matchmaking plans feature an interim title fight between Carlos Prates and Michael Morales instead of an immediate title defense by Makhachev ahead of Ramadan.
If Makhachev defeats the winner of the Prates and Morales matchup, Bisping calculates he would hold multiple defenses across divisions before making a historic jump to middleweight.
Historical context for a three division title shot
Bisping argues that if any active athlete deserves the unprecedented opportunity to move up and fight for a third championship belt, it is certainly the dominant Dagestani grappler.
To support this claim, the Hall of Famer pointed out that fighter Alex Pereira was recently granted a similar high profile opportunity to move divisions and challenge for gold.
Achieving this feat would add another remarkable milestone to a career already defined by elite grappling, striking excellence, and numerous successful title defenses.
Coach Javier Mendez evaluates the middleweight potential
American Kickboxing Academy head coach Javier Mendez previously discussed this ambitious weight class transition with media personality The Schmo in late 2024.
Mendez expressed absolute confidence that Makhachev possesses the technical skills and physical capabilities to successfully pull off a move to the middleweight division.
However, the veteran coach noted at the time that he remained uncertain whether a move to 185 pounds aligns with the personal goals of the pound for pound champion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is suggesting Islam Makhachev should fight for a middleweight title?
UFC Hall of Famer Michael Bisping suggested on his YouTube channel that Islam Makhachev should pursue a middleweight championship before retiring from MMA.
What did Islam Makhachev reveal about his retirement?
Islam Makhachev revealed on social media that his next professional fights will be among the final appearances of his legendary combat sports career.
Could Islam Makhachev become a triple champion in the UFC?
According to analysts like Michael Bisping and coach Javier Mendez, Makhachev has the skill set to challenge for a third division title, though his exact plans remain unconfirmed.
