Islam Makhachev's coach divides MMA internet with bold claim of middleweight dominance: "He would be smashed at 185 against Dricus du Plessis"

Islam Makhachev's coach recently made a daring declaration about the Dagestani fighter's performance in the middleweight division, which sparked mixed reactions from MMA fans. While some agreed, many chastised the coach, providing a reality check about Makhachev at 185 pounds.

This person in question is Javier Mendez, who stated in a recent interview with The Schmo that he is confident the 33-year-old will soon become a middleweight champion.

''I 100% feel Islam can [be the 185 champion] if that’s what he wanted to do. I see it in the gym, I know how good this guy is. 185 is not gonna be an issue for him. It’s a matter of whether he wants to.”

In response to Mendez's remarks, combat sports YouTuber The MMA Guru voiced his disagreement while citing Makhachev's performances against Dustin Poirier and Alexander Volkanovski.

''Are we still pretending he didn't go tooth and nail with Volkanovski and struggle with Poirier? Poirier stuffed 11 of 16 takedowns and was behind by 14 significant strikes before the sub (88 to 74). Are we pretending again Javier? I mean really?''

Fans soon rushed to the comments section to share their reactions.

One fan backed Dricus du Plessis against Makhachev in a potential fight, writing:

''He would be smashed at 185 against DDP"

Another one disagreed with The MMA Guru, and said:

''DDP struggled with Darren Till which is not even close to Makhachev in any aspect of the game so whats ur point?''

Other fans wrote:

''Islam does have difficulties for sure - but he has an impressive style''

''Couldn’t do nothing with 145-pound Volk with a full round on his back, what makes anyone think he’s doing anything to DDP who is already massive for middleweight''

Check out more reactions below:

Fan reactions [Screenshots courtesy: @THATBOYMMAGURU on X]

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Javier Mendez previews Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311

Islam Makhachev is set to make his fourth lightweight title defense in a rematch against Arman Tsarukyan in the main event of UFC 311. The event will take place next year on Jan. 18 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.

Ahead of the matchup, coach Javier Mendez spoke with Helen Yee and addressed whether it will be different from their first encounter at UFC Fight Night 149.

''I don't know as to what area is going to be different. It's going to be what he's going to give us that we're going to take. Islam, like I said many times, we can switch him from round to round, minute to minute, second to second, and how he fights...It could be ground or stand-up, doesn't matter... Because Islam can do it all."

Check out Javier Mendez's comments below (13:34):