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Islam Makhachev Fires Back at Chael Sonnen: “I’m Built Different” in Quest for Two UFC Belts

Islam Makhachev isn’t here for Chael Sonnen’s criticism. The UFC lightweight champion recently fired back at the former title challenger, making it clear that his ambitions to become a two-division champion come from a completely different mindset than what Sonnen can comprehend.

In the world of MMA, few things get fans talking like a champion chasing a second belt. But according to Makhachev, Sonnen just doesn’t get it.

The Champion’s Quest for Greatness

Makhachev has been dominant as the UFC lightweight king, looking nearly untouchable in his recent performances. After dispatching Alexander Volkanovski in their rematch at UFC 294, the Dagestani fighter has made it clear that moving up to welterweight is high on his priority list.

“I’m not just looking for another paycheck,” Makhachev stated in a recent interview. “I’m built different. I want to test myself against the best and make history. Sonnen never had that mindset.”

The lightweight champion’s coach, Khabib Nurmagomedov, has also supported this move, believing his protégé has what it takes to become the next UFC double champion.

Why Sonnen Doesn’t Get It

Chael Sonnen, never one to hold back his opinions, recently questioned Makhachev’s motivation on his YouTube channel, suggesting the champion should focus on defending his current belt rather than chasing a second title.

“Sonnen fought for titles in multiple divisions but never won one,” Makhachev pointed out. “Maybe that’s why he can’t understand what drives someone who already has the gold. When you’re at the top, you need new mountains to climb.”

It’s a fascinating clash of perspectives between someone who fell short in title fights and someone who’s already reached the pinnacle and is looking for the next challenge.

The Legacy Factor: What Two Belts Would Mean

If Makhachev succeeds in capturing a second belt, he’d join an elite club of fighters including Conor McGregor, Daniel Cormier, Amanda Nunes, and Henry Cejudo. But what separates Makhachev’s approach is his emphasis on technical dominance rather than just star power.

I think what makes Makhachev’s case interesting is how methodically he’s approaching this goal. Unlike some previous double-champs who relied heavily on striking, Makhachev brings a grappling-heavy approach that could potentially translate well to a higher weight class.

UFC Double Champions	Weight Classes	Year Achieved
Conor McGregor	Featherweight & Lightweight	2016
Daniel Cormier	Light Heavyweight & Heavyweight	2018
Amanda Nunes	Bantamweight & Featherweight	2018
Henry Cejudo	Flyweight & Bantamweight	2019

Is Makhachev’s Goal Realistic?

The question isn’t just whether Makhachev wants a second belt—it’s whether he can actually get it. The welterweight division presents significant challenges, with larger fighters who won’t be as easily controlled.

“People thought Khabib should’ve moved up too, but he never did,” noted UFC commentator Joe Rogan recently. “Makhachev is actually doing it, and that takes serious courage.”

The current welterweight landscape features fighters like Leon Edwards and Belal Muhammad who bring strong wrestling credentials themselves—potentially neutralizing Makhachev’s greatest strength.

The Fan Perspective: What MMA Enthusiasts Think

Fan reactions have been mixed. Some applaud Makhachev’s ambition while others echo Sonnen’s sentiment that he should focus on cleaning out the lightweight division first.

One thing’s for sure—whenever a champion attempts to move up in weight, it creates compelling storylines that transcend the sport. Just ask guys like GSP and BJ Penn how challenging it can be.

You might remember how Penn’s attempt to capture the welterweight title from GSP ended—not well for the lightweight legend. But Makhachev seems confident he won’t suffer the same fate.

What’s Next for Makhachev?

Before any welterweight dreams can materialize, Makhachev likely needs at least one more lightweight title defense. Rumors suggest a potential fight with either Arman Tsarukyan or Charles Oliveira could be next.

If he gets past his next challenger, the path to welterweight becomes much clearer. UFC president Dana White hasn’t publicly shot down the idea, which is typically a good sign for champions looking to make history.

Whatever happens next, Makhachev has made it clear—his pursuit of greatness is built different from what Sonnen can understand. And honestly, that’s what makes championship mentality so special—not everyone has it.