Imagine stepping into the octagon knowing you’re only operating at 60 to 70 percent of your full potential. That’s exactly what Islam Makhachev claims he’s been dealing with during his lightweight reign—and it’s a bold revelation that raises eyebrows. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: Makhachev is now making a daring leap to welterweight, aiming to become a two-division champion, and he’s already feeling the benefits in his fight camp. Could this be the game-changer we’ve all been waiting for?
On November 15, at UFC 322 in the iconic Madison Square Garden, Makhachev will challenge welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena for the 170-pound title. This move comes fresh off his successful lightweight title defense against Renato Moicano in January, marking a strategic shift from his usual 155-pound division. In an exclusive interview with ESPN, Makhachev opened up about the adjustments he’s making for this transition, emphasizing how a less grueling weight cut could be the key to unlocking his full potential on fight night.
‘Anyone cutting more than 10 kg [22 pounds] never fully recovers,’ Makhachev explained. ‘Even at 60 or 70 percent, I’ve managed to perform, but it’s tough to bounce back in just 30 hours. Now, I’m eager to see how I’ll feel in the cage with this new approach.’ And this is the part most people miss: If Makhachev felt limited at lightweight, it certainly didn’t show in his performances. Since his lone UFC loss to Adriano Martins in October 2015, he’s strung together an impressive 15-fight win streak, including five consecutive lightweight title victories. His professional record now stands at a staggering 27-1.
Where Makhachev expects his physical transformation to truly shine is in the later rounds against Della Maddalena. ‘We’ll see after the second or third round—the championship rounds,’ he said. ‘I’ve already noticed a difference in camp. My recovery, my energy after the third round—it’s something new for me.’
Of course, Makhachev won’t be alone in this endeavor. UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, his longtime mentor and corner staple, will be guiding him. Makhachev is often seen as Nurmagomedov’s spiritual successor, mirroring his dominant wrestling-based style that led to an undefeated 29-0 career. But here’s the controversial part: While Nurmagomedov’s game plan is clear—take Della Maddalena down, wear him out, and dominate on the ground—some argue that Makhachev’s success hinges on more than just replicating his mentor’s strategy. Is Makhachev truly ready to step out of Nurmagomedov’s shadow and carve his own path?
‘It’s no secret,’ Makhachev admitted. ‘Khabib told me to take him down, tire him out, and finish him on the ground—choke him, armbar, whatever it takes. I’ve seen Della Maddalena’s ground game; he’s solid, but I have something extra.’ Here’s the question that’ll spark debate: Can Makhachev’s ‘something extra’ truly make the difference, or is he relying too heavily on a proven but predictable formula? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one fight where the strategy might be just as debated as the outcome.
