Islam Makhachev Claims He Was Only 70% Ready After Weight Cut

Islam Makhachev is set to make his welterweight debut at UFC 322, aiming to become a two-division champion. The event is scheduled for November 15 at Madison Square Garden in New York. Makhachev will face current champion Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight title.

Transition to Welterweight

After defending his lightweight title against Renato Moicano in January 2025, Makhachev decided to move up from 155 pounds. His reasoning focuses on the challenges of weight cutting and recovery.

Concerns About Weight Cutting

Makhachev expressed concerns regarding his previous rigorous weight cuts. “No one who cuts more than 10 kg [approximately 22 pounds] ever recovers 100 percent,” he explained. Currently, he feels he recovers to only 70 or 60 percent before fights.

This time, he anticipates that a less stressful weight cut will enhance his performance on fight night. “I’m very excited to see how I’m going to feel in the cage,” he added.

Fight Strategy and Expectations

Makhachev has maintained a remarkable winning streak since his UFC debut loss in 2015. He has secured 15 straight victories, with five of those being lightweight title defenses. His professional record now stands at 27 wins and only 1 loss.

• Notable Achievements:
  • 15 consecutive victories
  • 5 successful lightweight title defenses
  • Professional record: 27-1

As the fight approaches, Makhachev emphasizes the importance of later rounds in determining the fight’s outcome. He stated, “Let’s see after the second round how it happens. I already feel my recovery improving during training.”

Support from Khabib Nurmagomedov

Makhachev will have UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov in his corner, a vital presence for his fight strategy. Makhachev considers Nurmagomedov to be his mentor and spiritual predecessor in the sport.

Narugomedov’s advice will guide Makhachev to utilize grappling and ground control to tire out Della Maddalena. “I think I can finish him on the ground. I can choke him or attempt an armbar,” Makhachev said confidently.

As he embarks on this new chapter in welterweight competition, Makhachev aims to prove that moving up in weight can lead to greater success and performance recovery.