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 division (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 champion Jack Della Maddalena . It is true that the athlete is looking to adapt to the new division, but he downplays any problems for the commitment and seems excited.

On the 'Countdown' program for UFC 322, Makhachev 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.

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In any case, Makhachev guaranteed 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 inflicting the Australian's 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 Makhachev , 33, made his mark in the UFC lightweight division. The Russian became champion in 2022 when he submitted Charles Oliveira in a fight for the vacant title. From then on, he defended the belt by defeating Alexander Volkanovski twice, by unanimous decision and knockout, and by submitting Dustin Poirier and Renato Moicano . Currently, the professional has 15 consecutive wins and is seeking his second title in a different division within the company.

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