Mendez weighed Makhachev's chances in a potential meeting with Chimaev

The head coach of the AKA gym, Javier Mendez, believes that his ward Islam Makhachev able to defeat Khamzat Chimaev, however, does not think that this fight will take place in the foreseeable future.

“If he wants to move up to welterweight, then I see him take the title there. He is 100% capable of doing it. As for Chimaev, Islam can defeat him, but first he needs to take the belt.

Of course, Khamzat is an excellent fighter, his abilities should not be underestimated. Let's see what happens when they meet. But now they are far apart. Now we must be completely focused on Charles Oliveira, ”SE quotes Mendes.

Recall that the fight between Oliveira and Makhachev will headline the UFC 280 tournament, which will be held on October 22 in Abu Dhabi. The vacant lightweight title of the promotion will be at stake in the fight.