Javier Mendez supports Islam Makhachev in his move up to middleweight.

UFC lightweight champion Makhachev (26-1 MMA, 15-1 UFC) dreams of dual champion status, but his plans to move up to welterweight were put on hold after his friend Belal Muhammad won the 170-pound title.

Makhachev’s next opponent is Arman Tsarukyan, which would give Makhachev the chance to break the UFC record for most lightweight title defenses.

“That’s a good reason to fight Arman or anyone else, and you get the most defenses in lightweight history,” Mendez told Red Corner MMA. “I can’t believe three is the record. It’s just incredible how that changes.”

“So many fighters have won titles there, but they’ve never held on to them for more than three title defenses. So Islam is going to break the record and I want him to go down in history as one of the greatest of all time and I think he’s well on his way to doing that.”

Makhachev’s return was delayed due to a ligament injury in his hand. If Makhachev can defend his title once again, Mendez would like to see him pursue another UFC title.

With no chance at welterweight, Mendez believes Makhachev has what it takes to shine at middleweight.

“Then we’ll see what happens after that,” Mendez said. “Maybe Islam gains weight and weighs 185 pounds. I mean, obviously he would have to gain weight because that’s a little too much for him. You never know. He’s that good. (He’s) No. 1 pound for pound for a reason.”