Islam will go all the way: why the fight between Rakhmonov and Makhachev in the UFC seems inevitable.

Discussions regarding a potential matchup between the Russian champion (26-1) and the undefeated Kazakh fighter (19-0) are becoming increasingly relevant. A correspondent has outlined several reasons why this fight is plausible.

As you may know, the 33-year-old Makhachev has been the lightweight champion (up to 70.3 kilograms) for over two years. He has consistently topped the UFC rankings across all weight classes (P4P). In contrast, the 30-year-old Rakhmonov ranks second in the welterweight division (up to 77.7 kilograms).

In his next bout, Shavkat is set to fight for the UFC championship against (24-3-0-1). While there is no official date yet, the fight is tentatively scheduled for May this year. As for Makhachev, he will defend his lightweight title for the fourth time on January 19 against (22-3).

Will Rakhmonov's Championship Open Doors for Makhachev?

The Dagestani fighter has repeatedly stated that he does not intend to fight Muhammad. Their friendship and joint training sessions have spanned several years. They communicate frequently and wish to keep their sport from causing discord in their relationship.

Nevertheless, Islam continues to express that he is in search of a new challenge, with his sights set on a second title in the welterweight division. Currently, Belal holds that championship, and the chances of taking it from the Russian are slim—unless he decides to set aside their friendship and claim the title from Muhammad.

If Rakhmonov defeats Belal and becomes the new champion, it would signal a "green light" for Islam. He and Shavkat share a respectful relationship, but it is not close enough for either to decline a fight. Both have significant goals, and sometimes those paths may intersect. This is precisely such a case.

A Victory Over Tsarukyan Could Cool Makhachev's Interest in His Division

If Islam defeats Tsarukyan for the second time, he may find himself without prominent contenders in his weight class. He has already secured victories over notable fighters, while others have lost their recent bouts.

Makhachev is not keen on rematches, although he has indicated that he might be willing to give Oliveira another chance. However, if an opportunity arises for him to move up a weight class and fight for a second title, he will likely choose that path.

At present, it seems that Makhachev has cleared the top of the lightweight division (he just needs to defeat Tsarukyan in their rematch). There are no other clear contenders in sight.

How Muhammad's Training Will Influence Makhachev's Mindset

For several years, Belal has been training alongside fighters from the team. Even now, as Islam prepares to defend his title against Tsarukyan, Muhammad is present in the gym with him.

If Belal loses his title in the bout against Shavkat, Islam will likely gain a clearer understanding of what the Palestinian fighter did wrong. Moreover, if it comes to a fight against Rakhmonov, Belal will be able to offer Islam several tips on how to counter the strengths of the Kazakh fighter or defeat him.

Regardless of opinions, a potential fight between Rakhmonov and Makhachev would be a major event. It could very well be the biggest bout in the careers of both fighters. Neither has faced opponents of this caliber before, and it would be monumental, especially since both represent CIS countries.

Whether this will actually happen remains to be seen. For serious discussions to take place, several factors must align: Rakhmonov needs to defeat Muhammad, and Makhachev must settle all matters with Tsarukyan. However, it is almost a certainty that the UFC will be interested in providing the top P4P contender with a title shot in another weight class.