Dustin Poirier believes Islam Makhachev could succeed in the welterweight division but doubts his chances at middleweight, while Ilia Topuria‘s move to lightweight to challenge Makhachev may be hindered by size differences.
Dustin Poirier knows that size matters. As he waits for what might be the last fight of his career, he keeps an eye on his division’s athletes, especially the reigning champion, Islam Makhachev.
Makhachev has hinted at moving to a new weight class to chase another UFC title. Although welterweight seems logical, he hesitates because his friend Belal Muhammad holds that title. So, middleweight? Maybe.
“I think he’d do really well at 170 [pounds],” Poirier told Helen Yee about Makhachev. “185, the guys are just too big.”
Islam’s a big guy. He could fight at 170 and maybe even become champ there. But 185? That’s a stretch.
Meanwhile, Ilia Topuria has decided to move up after giving up his featherweight title. He’s eyeing a jump to lightweight—specifically targeting Makhachev.
After knocking out legends like Volkanovski and Holloway in 2024, Topuria is keen on the 155-pound title. Makhachev isn’t impressed, though; he’s already beaten Volkanovski twice and seeks more challenging opponents.
Poirier didn’t comment on Makhachev’s feelings but thinks Topuria moving up might not end well for him. “If he can stop the takedowns, his boxing’s better than Islam’s,” Poirier said. “He’s a bigger puncher.”
“Islam’s technique is getting better,” Poirier noted. “Crafty and elusive. When I fought him, he kept a weird range.” The size difference with Topuria? Too much, Poirier believes.
For now, both Makhachev and Topuria await their next fights. It’s unclear what the future holds.
Ranked as the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter, Makhachev might have a strong case for an immediate title shot wherever he goes next. But who knows? Only time will tell.