UFC President Dana White has co-signed Islam Makhachev's future move to welterweight.

The Russian has been out of the cage since defending his title against Dustin Poirier in June. In the main event of UFC 302, Islam Makhachev met “The Diamond” in his third fight for the undisputed gold medal. Despite some resistance from the challenger, the lightweight champion ultimately secured a fifth-round submission victory.

After the fight, Islam Makhachev discussed plans to move to welterweight. However, the lightweight's plans were put on hold after teammate Belal Muhammad defeated Leon Edwards in July. As of now, “Remember The Name” will face Shavkat Rakhmonov in the main event of UFC 310 in December.

If “Nomad” defeats Muhammad, it appears Islam Makhachev could move up to welterweight. The Russian is currently expected to face Arman Tsarukyan in a rematch early next year. Makhachev won a unanimous decision victory over his Armenian competitor back in April 2019.

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Dana White says he will “definitely” give Islam Makhachev a shot at the welterweight title if he wins his next fight 👀

🎥 @ufc #UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/ckC4u1D2Ep

– Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) October 24, 2024

UFC President Dana White discusses Islam Makhachev's possible move to 170 pounds

Earlier today at a PowerSlap press conference, Dana White was asked if Islam Makhachev had moved to 170 pounds. Although the UFC president has resisted some champions' plans in the past, he seems to like the idea. Even though White doesn't believe Makhachev is the number one contender, he still wants to give him a shot at becoming a double champion.

However, before the lightweight champion can fight at 170 pounds, he must first face Arman Tsarukyan again. According to multiple reports, the two are scheduled to meet at UFC 311 in January. Additionally, Khabib Nurmagomedov revealed that Makhachev had already signed a contract to return to the cage. However, the fight currently remains unannounced.

With a win, the lightweight has the chance to move up and aim for double champion status. However, it could also depend on how Belal Muhammad turns out against Shavkat Rakhmonov in December. Regardless, Islam Makhachev has the boss's blessing when and if he wants to move up.

What do you think of this news from UFC President Dana White? Would you like to see Islam Makhachev compete at welterweight?