Champion Islam Makhachev explains why he 'disappointed' in his last fight and promises a complete turnaround against Ian Garry at UFC 330.

Makhachev focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

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MMA legend Islam Makhachev has adopted a surprising stance ahead of his important new fight in the octagon. In the main event of UFC 330 , taking place on August 15th in Philadelphia (USA), the Russian, welterweight champion (up to 77,1 kg), puts his title on the line for the first time against Ian Garry , but he hasn't forgotten their previous duel. Precisely for this reason, Khabib Nurmagomedov 's friend anticipates that changes will occur.

In an interview with the website 'MMA Junkie', Makhachev not only accepted the criticism he received from many fans after his unanimous decision victory against Jack Della Maddalena in November, but also agreed with it. Interestingly, the UFC star delivered one of the most dominant performances against the Australian, yet failed to impress by showing little interest in finishing the fight.

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Having won his second belt in a different UFC weight class and aware of his high level of skill, the Russian promised to present a more aggressive version of himself against Garry. It's worth noting that before facing JDM, Makhachev had defeated Alexander Volkanovski , Dustin Poirier , and Renato Moicano by stoppage.

“ Now, I feel more comfortable . The first camp was very difficult. I only tried to gain weight, I did an intense weight training program, but in this camp, I maintained the same weight. I feel like a true welterweight and I think this camp was easier. Honestly, I don't like the fight against JDM, because I only wanted to be a double champion . I only fought for the victory ,” he said.

“I didn’t do some things to finish the fight because I understood that I won all the rounds and only wanted to win the second belt. But if it’s a normal fight, I can finish him in all the rounds. Yes, of course, in this fight I will take more risks to finish my opponents because I like to finish my opponents,” he concluded.

Makhachev's fighters in MMA

Islam Makhachev , 34, is a UFC double champion and an MMA legend. With four successful title defenses, the Russian holds the record in the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg). He began his career in the sport in 2010 and debuted in the UFC's biggest organization in 2015.

In this discipline, Khabib Nurmagomedov 's friend built a record of 28 wins and one loss. The welterweight champion's main victories were over Alexander Volkanovski (twice), Arman Tsarukyan , Charles Oliveira , Dustin Poirier , Jack Della Maddalena , and Renato Moicano.

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