Islam Makhachev's coach: Lightweight champ open to facing Max Holloway

According to his trainer Javier Mendez, UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev is reportedly open to a fight with Max Holloway. Mendez indicated that the Dagestani fighter would not shy away from the challenge should the promotion look to book such a contest.

The revelation comes from Mendez, who also coaches other prominent fighters, and suggests that Makhachev's camp is considering all major challenges within the UFC's lightweight division and potentially beyond, depending on matchmaking decisions.

This sentiment from Makhachev's corner could pave the way for discussions around a superfight, pitting two of the sport's most respected athletes against each other, though no official talks have been confirmed.