Islam Makhachev is building an incredible legacy, but there is still a plethora of fighters who would make for fantastic matches, with his coach, Javier Mendez, revealing who he would like to face the Russian against next.
The esteemed trainer has played a major role in building the warrior into the animal he is today.
Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG
Javier Mendez wants Arman Tsarukyan or Justin Gaethje to get their next shot at Khabib Nurmagomedov
On Saturday night at UFC 311 inside the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, USA, Islam Makhachev put on a phenomenal performance, submitting Renato Moicano with a Brabo choke in the first round.
However, the Brazilian wasn't initially the man who should have been there, with Arman Tsarukyan originally announced as the other half of the main event.
Unfortunately, the Armenian suffered an injury that prevented him from participating in the highly anticipated match.
However, Javier Mendez believes the warrior still deserves a shot at UFC gold.
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In an interview with Submission Radio, he explained: “I feel sorry for him because no fighter should have to go through what that poor man did. He trained so hard for this, earned the right to fight for the title and was only eliminated due to injury.
“It reminded me of what happened with Khabib Nurmagomedov. I wish him a speedy recovery and I hope he doesn't have to take another fight before he gets another title shot. I hope the UFC gives him that opportunity.”
However, with Dana White claiming that Tsarukyan must earn his way back to the top, Mendez has mentioned another option for his student.
He simply said, “Justin Gaethje for not fighting him.”
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While Mendez has named two opponents who would make for a fantastic defense of Makhachev's throne at 155 pounds, not everyone wants him to remain lightweight.
A former UFC competitor has explained that he believes the legend should move up to welterweight for a showdown with Belal Muhammad.
The ex-fighter even goes so far as to claim that if the Dagestani doesn't change his weight class, he's nothing more than a bully.
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