Why is Islam Makhachev so good on the ground? Demian Maia explains before UFC 330

Islam Makhachev in victory against Jack Della Maddalena . Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

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Demian Maia will be in Ian Garry 's corner against Islam Makhachev at UFC 330 , but he doesn't hide his admiration for the level shown by the Russian champion, especially in grappling. Scheduled for the main event, set for next Saturday (15), Makhachev will put his welterweight belt on the line against the Irishman. Responsible for improving the challenger's jiu-jitsu, Maia recognizes that his pupil will have a difficult mission against the Dagestani on the ground.

In an interview with ' MMA Fighting' , Demian Maia highlighted Makhachev's grappling skills and compared the champion's style to that practiced in high-level sport jiu-jitsu. According to the expert, the Russian stands out for his ability to advance positions, seek the best submission opportunities, and adapt his ground game to different situations.

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Fighting Nerds leaders disagree on predicting the outcome of Makhachev vs. Ian Garry at UFC 330.

“Makhachev has that champion aura. He has very good jiu-jitsu. His jiu-jitsu is actually very similar to high-level sport jiu-jitsu. He's not overly concerned with hurting people with strikes. He wants to advance, get into positions where he's good, and find the right submissions. His jiu-jitsu is adaptable, and he could probably even compete at a high level in jiu-jitsu competitions,” said Demian Maia.

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Islam Makhachev faces Ian Garry at UFC 330

Islam Makhachev and Ian Garry will face off for the UFC belt. Photo: SUPER LUTAS montage

Islam Makhachev will defend his welterweight title against Ian Garry at UFC 330 , in a contest that pits grappling dominance against striking volume. Although Garry boasts a significant physical advantage, measuring 1,90m tall and 1,88m in reach compared to the champion's 1,78m in both measurements, the Russian holds a considerable advantage in his professional record with 28-1-0. The Irishman attempts to shock the world with a record of 17 wins and only one loss.

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The technical matchup pits Garry's striking volume against Makhachev's relentless wrestling. The challenger lands an average of 4,78 significant strikes per minute compared to the champion's 2,45, but will need to test his 80% takedown defense. This is because Makhachev executes approximately 3,10 takedowns every 15 minutes with 56% accuracy, overwhelmingly controlling the action on the ground.