Islam Makhachev has set his sights on making history by moving up to middleweight and challenging reigning champion Dricus Du Plessis. Although the Dagestani has long harbored ambitions of fighting for a second belt—preferably at welterweight—he took his goals to new heights at the UFC 311 press conference. Fresh off a dominant victory over Renato Moicano, the lightweight kingpin boldly declared that he could become a three-division champ, stating that he holds the “keys” to slay the South African tank.

This claim, however, has not been well received by many, including Du Plessis himself, and for good reason. There’s a reason why weight classes exist—fighters naturally experience increased power, strength, and muscle mass as they move up divisions. Jumping up two classes compounds these disadvantages, making Makhachev’s claim all the more audacious. But despite the clear physical obstacles, we still believe Makhachev could defeat Du Plessis at 185lbs. Why? For three key reasons. Let’s find out what they are!

Islam Makhachev’s world-class wrestling and grappling

Islam Makhachev is probably the best wrestler in the UFC at the moment. A three-time Combat Sambo world champion, the Makhachkala native comes from the same stable as Khabib Nurmagomedov who just so happens to be one of the most intense grapplers in promotion history. While Du Plessis would have a decided power advantage in the striking, Makhachev could neutralize it by just taking the fight to the ground.

Of course, Dricus Du Plessis’ strength would also help him on the ground. But the lightweight champ is probably the best grappler ‘DDP’ ever faces and Makhachev has all the tools to make life hell for the South African on the ground. At the very least the Dagestani could tire out Du Plessis, and curb some of the latter’s vaunted explosiveness.

Makhachev’s exceptional fight IQ and strategy

Islam Makhachev has two of the sharpest MMA minds on his team- Khabib Nurmagomedov and AKA gym head coach Javier Mendez. Not to mention Makhachev’s historically great fight IQ, combined with his keen understanding and management of range, distance, timing, and pace is probably his most important attribute.

This could help the lightweight champ somewhat ‘control’ Du Plessis and his wild fighting style. The South African packs a schoolyard bully spazzy arm-swinging style with power for days. If Makhachev could stem his stream of constant offense and capitalize on openings (which would be plenty) with his own sharp striking and ground game, he could well frustrate ‘DDP’. This, in turn, would make Du Plessis even more reckless, giving Makhachev even more opportunities for a finish.

The lightweight champ’s cardio and stamina

It’s undeniably challenging to maintain the relentless pace that Dricus Du Plessis brings into his fights, but even the reigning middleweight champion isn’t immune to fatigue. The South African has often been seen gasping for air and breathing through his mouth as fights wear on, which could play directly into Makhachev’s hands.

Makhachev is a firm believer in the “always stay in shape” philosophy, and his conditioning is a testament to that. His exceptional gas tank allows him to maintain relentless pressure, especially in the championship rounds where fights are often decided. By the later rounds, Du Plessis might find himself running low on energy.

While the South African has proven his ability to push through exhaustion in the past, facing a still-fresh Makhachev in the fourth and fifth rounds could prove to be a breaking point. The Dagestani’s composure, pace, and stamina might be enough to force cracks in the champion’s armor.

What’s your take on this potential middleweight clash? Could Makhachev’s unmatched endurance and game plan neutralize Du Plessis, or would the South African’s power and size prevail? Share your thoughts below!