UFC fans were left buzzing this week as former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev revealed fresh details about his potential return to 155 lbs and a prospective showdown with current champion Ilia Topuria. Rumors of a “super-fight” between the two top pound-for-pound talents have circulated since Topuria’s first-round knockout of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, and Makhachev’s comments have now fueled speculation about the timing and circumstances of such a matchup.

Makhachev Eyes Lightweight Return After Welterweight Bout

Makhachev, who vacated the lightweight title in May, has been competing at welterweight following his victory over Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319. Speaking to Russian media this week, the former champ revealed details about his current weight and training strategy, hinting at how a move back down to lightweight might be handled.

“Before my last training camp I was [183-185 lbs]. In this training camp, following my diet my weight went up to 86.5 kg (190.5 lbs) yesterday. I think we can already say I’m at the optimal weight, where I feel comfortable training with welterweights,” Makhachev explained.

His statements suggest that he feels strong and comfortable at 170 lbs, while also leaving open the possibility of returning to lightweight to challenge Topuria.

No Plans for Middleweight Jump

In addition to discussing his potential lightweight return, Makhachev addressed speculation about a possible move up to 185 lbs to challenge Khamzat Chimaev, the current middleweight champion. He made it clear that such a scenario is unlikely.

“I have no plans to gain more weight. It might go up, maximum two kilograms,” he stated, putting to rest rumors of a middleweight attempt for now.

Weight Considerations for a Lightweight Comeback

Makhachev was candid about the challenges of cutting weight and how it might affect a potential return to 155 lbs. He explained that his natural weight fluctuations will dictate whether a lightweight bout against Topuria is feasible.

“I don’t know. And it was never easy [the weight cut]. I’ll have to see how much I gain after the fight. If after the fight in a month my weight is the same 83-84 kg, then we can talk about it. But if it’s already 85 kg (187 lbs), considering that the weight has gone up and it already wasn’t easy, I think we’ll have to sit down with the team and talk [about whether to move back down to lightweight].”

His remarks signal a pragmatic approach, balancing performance at welterweight with the desire to pursue one of the most anticipated fights in recent UFC history.

Scenario: Makhachev vs Topuria

Fans are eager to see a showdown between Makhachev and Topuria, the two top-ranked lightweight fighters and #1 and #2 in the pound-for-pound rankings. The timing of this fight will likely depend on several factors:

• If Makhachev wins at welterweight in November, and Topuria continues his winning streak in his upcoming fights (likely in December or January), a return to lightweight for a title clash seems probable.

• If Makhachev struggles or decides to remain comfortable at 170 lbs, the UFC may let him continue competing in the welterweight division, potentially delaying or shelving a lightweight rematch.

The stakes are enormous. A lightweight clash between Topuria and Makhachev could be one of the biggest fights of the decade, combining championship belts, top rankings, and immense fan interest.

Fans and the UFC Universe React

Makhachev’s comments have been widely seen as positive news for fans, as they keep alive the possibility of a blockbuster lightweight fight. While he emphasizes patience and careful weight management, his openness to a rematch with Topuria ensures that speculation and excitement will continue to build.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead

Islam Makhachev’s latest statements highlight his strategic approach to weight, training, and career planning. With a welterweight fight scheduled in November at UFC 322 at Madison Square Garden, the outcome of that bout will likely determine his next steps.

For UFC fans, the tantalizing prospect of a Makhachev vs Topuria lightweight clash remains very much alive. Should both fighters remain dominant in their respective divisions, this could be the defining fight of the UFC lightweight era, pitting two of the sport’s elite grapplers and strikers against one another for title supremacy and pound-for-pound bragging rights.