Makhachev promises a dominant performance at UFC 322: 'I'm going to show who the best fighter in the world is'

Makhachev celebrates his UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

After shining in the lightweight category (up to 70,3 kg), Islam makhachev begins a new chapter in his MMA career. This Saturday (15), in New York (USA), the Russian will make his long-awaited debut in the welterweight division (up to 77,1 kg) and will challenge the champion. Jack Della MaddalenaIt's true that the athlete is trying to adapt to the new division, but he downplays any potential problems for the commitment and seems excited.

In the 'Countdown' program for the UFC 322Makhachev analyzed the important fight and made no secret of the strategy he will follow. A grappling specialist, the Russian stated that he will not deny his strength, indicating that he will use and abuse takedowns against JDM, known for his high level of striking.

See too

Dissatisfied with the weight-for-pound ranking, Makhachev elevates Pantoja and ignores Topuria in the UFC

Khabib downplays the Jon Jones vs. Poatan fight and points to the biggest fight the UFC can promote.

Islam Makhachev targets former champion for first title defense if he wins UFC 322.

In any case, Makhachev assured that he was ready to overcome the champion even in his strong point, that is, in stand-up fighting. Confident after training exhaustively under the tutelage of Khabib Nurmagomedov And Javier Mendez, the former lightweight champion, promised to live up to the odds given to him by the bookmakers, dominating the octagon and handing the Australian his first UFC defeat.

“When two high-level guys are fighting, details can change everything. That’s why I’m going to pressure JDM and just wait for the small mistakes to finish him. It’s no secret what I have better than him: wrestling and grappling. But I can exchange blows with anyone. I’m going to show you who the best fighter in the world is. Jack, be ready, my friend,” said the MMA legend.

Dominance in the lightweights

Islam makhachevThe 33-year-old made his mark in the UFC lightweight division. The Russian became champion of the category in 2022, when he submitted... Charles of the Bronx in the fight for the vacant title. From there, the athlete defended the belt by winning. Alexander Volkanovsky twice, by unanimous decision and knockout, and by submission Dustin poirier e Renato MoicanoCurrently, the professional has 15 consecutive wins and is seeking his second title in a different division within the company.