Islam Makhachev Eyes Welterweight Title Shot Following Rematch with Charles Oliveira

Reigning UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev seemingly has his eyes on a welterweight title shot.

Makhachev is set to face Charles Oliveira in a highly-anticipated rematch at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi on Oct. 21 While the Dagestan native isn't looking past the former champion, he has little doubt regarding the outcome of their second meeting, considering how he submitted Oliveira in Round 2 of their first bout at UFC 280.

“This fight is interesting for the people; everybody wants to see this match again,” Makhachev told ESPN. “But if I follow the plan, I can beat this guy easy, again. I believe that.”

Makhachev went on to share that his dream fight would be a shot at a second title. In this case, the 31-year-old is looking to secure a welterweight title fight against the winner of Leon Edwards vs. Colby Covington, which is set to take place at UFC 296 in December.

“I don't know what the UFC has planned, but my dream fight is for the second belt,” Makhachev said. “Of course, I am under contract, so whatever the UFC says, I will fight, no problem. But Edwards vs. Colby — I really believe I can beat [the winner]. I look at their skills and what they have as champion and I know my skills. It's going to be a good fight. I'm not saying I'm going to beat them easy. It's going to be a hard, tough fight against a big guy. But I believe I can finish those guys.”

Makhachev was also quick to remind any potential detractors that he was more than happy to give reigning featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski a shot at his title.

“I gave a chance to that guy, so they have to give me a chance, too,” he said. “I gave a chance to a guy from another division to come to my weight and to try to take this belt, and he lost. I want my chance, too.”