Makhachev backstage at the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/islam_makhachev
Although Islam Makhachev is making his debut in a category almost seven kilos heavier than usual this Saturday (15), that doesn't mean the Russian has escaped the difficult weight cutting process. A few hours before the official weigh-in for UFC 322, which takes place from 11:50 am this Friday (14), a moment was recorded in which the former lightweight champion struggled to reach the 77,1 kg limit of the welterweight division.
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In the video, captured by Khabib Nurmagomedov , Makhachev can be seen bundled up in warm clothes while pedaling on an exercise bike. Ironically, the former fighter and current coach of the Dagestan Clan speaks to him in Russian.
Islam Makhachev going through the last phase of his weight cut for #UFC322 pic.twitter.com/vcMC4eDAej
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) November 14, 2025
Makhachev needs to pinpoint the limit for the category on the scale.
Islam Makhahcev at the lightweight weigh-in. Photo: Reproduction/UFC.
Because it's a title fight, neither Makhachev nor Jack Della Maddalena will be entitled to the traditional one-pound allowance that the other athletes on the card can take advantage of. If the Russian fails to make weight, the fight automatically becomes valid for the title only as a possible title defense, and he would not become the champion even if he wins.
On the other hand, if the Australian has any problem during the weigh-in the situation changes completely. As happened with Charles do Bronx before the duel against Justin Gaethje , Maddalena would lose the belt without fighting and the fight next Saturday (15) would be with the category belt vacant and accessible only to the challenger.
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