Khabib Nurmagomedov’s former trainer has backed the UFC to create a new 165lb division and thinks Conor McGregor could thrive at the weight.
McGregor has been out of action since 2021 when he lost his trilogy rematch to Dustin Poirier, and has been training since surgery to fix a broken leg incurred in the defeat.
However he is yet to make a commitment to fight again, though rumours persist that he will be one of the names at the upcoming UFC 300 despite Dana White's denials, with the franchise often saving its biggest names for centenary events.
One potential match-up is with Michael Chandler, and that could conceivably take place at 165lb.
Speaking to Bitcoin Casinos, Mendez sees a way forward in that scenario.
He said: “I think that if the UFC made a new weight division and created a 165 pound title, it would be incredible for MMA, and similar to boxing where you have so many weight divisions and so many opportunities for fighters. The new weight class would be fantastic because it'll give more opportunities for guys that are stuck in the middle between weight classes.
“And then having Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler be the first official fight for the title would be the best way to introduce the new division, on the biggest stage, so it would be fantastic if it goes through.
“I hope the UFC can get this done because it's a great opportunity for fighters, it'll create great interest, and most importantly for me, a lot fighters will no longer be stuck in a bad situation weight-wise, they'd now been in weight class that would be really, really comfortable for them, and where they can perform at their optimum, so I really love that idea.”
He added: “The new 165 weight class would give Conor the chance to become the first three weight champion and I think that accolade would entice him to return to the cage sooner because he'd have the chance to be the first to win three titles, it's never been done before.
“He has all the money, so money is not a motivator for him anymore, it's about legacy and accomplishments and being the first to be a three division champion would be put down in history and he'd be remembered forever. If they made Conor and Chandler at 165 for the title, I think Conor would be enticed back into the cage quicker. I think 165 would benefit Conor, who is the bigger guy.”
Live on DAZN PPV: Anthony Joshua vs. Francis Ngannou on March 8. Click here for details and how to purchase.