“He’s Coming for Anderson Silva’s Record” – Islam Makhachev Vacates Lightweight Belt to Chase GOAT Status at Welterweight

When you hear the name Islam Makhachev, one thing comes to mind—dominance. For years, he’s been a force to reckon with in the lightweight division. But now, the Dagestani powerhouse is setting his sights even higher. In a bold move that’s sending shockwaves through the MMA world, Makhachev has vacated his lightweight title. Why? Because he’s gunning for something bigger—GOAT (Greatest of All Time) status.

The Bold Leap: Goodbye Lightweight, Hello Welterweight

In an era where fighters often cling tightly to their championship belts, Makhachev is doing the unthinkable—letting his go. But this isn’t about giving up; it’s about stepping up. With the lightweight division conquered, Makhachev is now ready to jump into the 170-pound pool and test his mettle against the world’s best welterweights.

It’s a path not unlike what we saw with fighters like Georges St-Pierre and Anderson Silva, who both put together legendary runs. In fact, Silva’s historic record—16 consecutive UFC wins—is exactly what many believe Makhachev is now targeting.

Why Leave the Lightweight Division?

This wasn’t a rash decision. Makhachev has done what few could in the 155-pound division. He’s defended his belt, dominated top contenders, and showcased a skill set that seems almost unfair. So what's left to prove?

By vacating the lightweight championship, he also opens the door for an entirely new set of challenges. After all, true greatness doesn’t come from comfort—it comes from taking risks.

Lightweight Legacy

• Makhachev owns key wins over elite fighters like Charles Oliveira and Alexander Volkanovski.
• His wrestling and sambo foundation have made him nearly untouchable in grappling exchanges.
• He’s coached and mentored by none other than Khabib Nurmagomedov, another lightweight legend.

Still, every champion needs a new mountain to climb. For Makhachev, that mountain sits in the welterweight division.

Chasing the GOAT: What It Really Means

There’s more to being the GOAT than just racking up wins. It’s about legacy, about conquering multiple divisions, facing adversity head-on, and never backing down from a challenge. And that’s exactly what Makhachev seems determined to do.

Anderson Silva's record of 16 straight UFC wins isn't just impressive—it’s iconic. It represents not just talent but consistency, focus, and longevity. If Makhachev can match or break that streak, especially across two weight classes, we’ll be talking about him in the same breath as Silva, St-Pierre, and Jon Jones.

The Welterweight Challenge Ahead

Of course, this journey won’t be easy. The welterweight division is stacked with powerhouses who hit harder and have longer reaches than most lightweights. Think of names like Leon Edwards, Belal Muhammad, or even a returning Kamaru Usman. These are not easy fights by any means.

But if anyone has the skill set to handle that step up in weight, it’s Makhachev. His fighting style—grappling-heavy with a pressure-based approach—translates well. He isn’t just a wrestler; he’s a problem solver inside the cage.

Can Skill Beat Size?

Here’s the million-dollar question: will Makhachev’s elite technique hold up against bigger, stronger opponents?

If history is any guide, he might not just survive—he could thrive. Just like GSP moved up to win middleweight gold after ruling the welterweight class, Makhachev might just become the next true double champion. And in doing so, he solidifies a legacy that never settles for “good enough.”

What This Means for MMA Fans

For fans, this move is a jackpot. Who doesn’t love a fighter willing to chase greatness, even if it means venturing into the unknown? Makhachev’s journey to welterweight opens up a world of exciting matchups and potential history-making moments.

We’re talking about potential super fights that could go down as legendary. Imagine Makhachev vs. Leon Edwards or even Makhachev vs. Shavkat Rakhmonov. These are fights that could shift divisions and redefine what it means to be a UFC champion.

The Bigger Picture: A Legacy in Motion

This isn’t just about belts or records—it’s about a fighter seeking something deeper. GOAT status isn’t handed out. It’s earned through sweat, sacrifice, and taking the road less traveled. And with this bold leap, Makhachev is choosing the harder—but more rewarding—path.

Whether he succeeds or not, there’s no doubt about one thing: Islam Makhachev is writing his own story, refusing to be confined by just one division, one moment, or one title.

Final Thoughts: A New Chapter Begins

Every so often, a fighter comes along who changes the game—not just with their skills, but with their mindset. Islam Makhachev is doing exactly that. By leaving behind a division he dominated, he’s showing the world that chasing greatness means never settling.

So as he moves into the welterweight ranks, don’t be surprised if the wins keep piling up. Don’t be shocked if Anderson Silva’s record suddenly isn’t so untouchable. And whatever happens, one thing’s for sure—we’re witnessing a fighter who refuses to be anything less than legendary.

The chase is on. And the GOAT status? It’s officially in play.