Islam Makhachev unfazed by Dricus Du Plessis ‘overpower’ warning as Dagestani dreams of middleweight belt 

Islam Makhachev doesn't care about the size difference and is easy to fight Dricus Du Plessis in the middleweight division.

Islam Makhachev unfazed by Dricus Du Plessis ‘overpower’ warning as Dagestani dreams of middleweight belt 

Islam Makhachev thinks he can balloon up and give Dricus Du Plessis a tough fight at the middleweight division (via Imago)

Islam Makhachev has been dominating the UFC lightweight division for some time now. The fighter has four title defenses, more than any lightweight in the history of UFC. He is more than eager to move up for the double champion status, and has even called out Dricus Du Plessis. However, there are many reservations about this move from experts and fans. 

Dricus Du Plessis recently shut down Makhachev’s claim and warned that he would overpower and dominate with ease. According to the South African, he’s a big middleweight and will have a massive weight advantage over Makhachev. However, the pound-for-pound number one isn’t concerned about it and believes he ticks all the parameters to fight DDP.

My height allows. I think my physical data allow it too. I just need to work with my specialists, gain muscle mass, add a little weight. I think I can try. As I already said at the press conference after the fight, if they offered it to me tomorrow and said they will give me time, I would not turn it down.

Islam Makhachev via Ushatayka’s YouTube channel 
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Makhachev’s original plan was to go up and get the welterweight title. However, with Belal Muhammad as the champion, it won’t happen due to their friendship. As a close friend of Team Khabib, Muhammad has already written off a potential fight with the lightweight champion. However, he does believe that Makhachev has the skill set to beat Du Plessis.

DDP had a controversial title win against Sean Strickland earlier last year. However, the fighter submitted former champion Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 to silence his critics. Since then, the middleweight champion has established a loyal fan following for himself, who doesn’t think Makhachev can pull it off. However, when it comes to raw strength, Makhachev is no joke at all.

Does Islam Makhachev have enough tools to beat Dricus Du Plessis?

Islam Makhachev is undoubtedly one of the most complete fighters in the current UFC roster. His skill set lies in his world-class grappling, dominant control, and elite Sambo skills within MMA. His exceptional wrestling transitions and calculated striking make him dangerous everywhere. With immense physical strength and relentless cardio, he pressures opponents consistently. 

Islam Makhachev beats Charles Oliveira at UFC 280
Islam Makhachev beats Charles Oliveira at UFC 280 (via X)

On top of that, his fighting IQ enables him to neutralize opponents’ strengths while imposing his game plan effectively. Fight fans have seen him dominating tough opponents with ease in multiple opponents. In an interview, former UFC heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier shared how competitive it was for him to grapple with Makhachev. 

I’m the big guy. So, generally when a smaller guy gets on top of you. When you decide it’s over, you just throw them off of you….I’m grappling with Islam once and I try to throw them off of me but he’s still there. Next thing, I’m grappling at a 100 percent cause the dude is that strong. 

Daniel Cormier via ESPN MMA 
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Makhachev’s squeeze especially has gained immense popularity due to his ability to choke out opponents in seconds. In his last outing, he tapped out BJJ black belt holder Renato Moicano in the first round. Though he was lighter than the Brazilian on fight night, gaining weight for middleweight debut is not an easy task if he aims to return to lightweight in the future. 

Related: Islam Makhachev Net Worth, Endorsements, UFC contract, Wife and House