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ARTICLE DETAIL
Islam Makhachev’s Welterweight Transition: New Weight, New Challenges | Mikal Bridges Struggles with Inconsistency, Plagued by Foul Trouble | Nazar's PPG Wins It in Overtime: Blackhawks Beat Mammoth | Pacers-Clippers Trade: Mathurin and Zubac's Impact | Troy Wins Sun Belt Tournament, Earns NCAA Berth | RMU Men's Hockey Advances to AHA Semifinals After Tense Series | Oregon State Basketball: The End of the Wayne Tinkle Era | Mexico vs. USA: Intense Rivalry at the World Baseball Classic 2026 | Italy vs. Great Britain in 2026 World Baseball Classic: Espresso-Fueled Victory | Islam Makhachev’s Welterweight Transition: New Weight, New Challenges | Mikal Bridges Struggles with Inconsistency, Plagued by Foul Trouble | Nazar's PPG Wins It in Overtime: Blackhawks Beat Mammoth | Pacers-Clippers Trade: Mathurin and Zubac's Impact | Troy Wins Sun Belt Tournament, Earns NCAA Berth | RMU Men's Hockey Advances to AHA Semifinals After Tense Series | Oregon State Basketball: The End of the Wayne Tinkle Era | Mexico vs. USA: Intense Rivalry at the World Baseball Classic 2026 | Italy vs. Great Britain in 2026 World Baseball Classic: Espresso-Fueled Victory

Sports / MMA

Islam Makhachev’s Welterweight Transition: New Weight, New Challenges

Islam Makhachev is stepping into the welterweight division to challenge Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322. This move marks a significant change in his training and physical conditioning, as he navigates the challenges of gaining weight and op...

Islam Makhachev estimates he was ‘60, 70 percent’ on fight night after lightweight cut
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Islam Makhachev’s Welterweight Transition: New Weight, New Challenges Image via MMA Fighting

Key Insights

  • Makhachev is moving up to welterweight to fight Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 for the 170-pound title.
  • He admitted to using creatine for the first time to help with weight gain and strength.
  • Makhachev aims to weigh around 87 kilos (192 pounds) and cut to 77 kilos (170 pounds) for the fight.
  • He believes a less strenuous weight cut will improve his performance, especially in later rounds.
  • Khabib Nurmagomedov remains in his corner, advising him to use his grappling skills to dominate Della Maddalena.

In-Depth Analysis

Islam Makhachev’s transition to welterweight involves significant changes to his training regimen and diet. Historically, Makhachev competed as a lightweight, enduring substantial weight cuts to meet the 155-pound limit. Now, moving up to 170 pounds, he focuses on gaining muscle mass and strength. He revealed that he’s using creatine for the first time, a supplement he believes is crucial for recovery, weight gain, and strength enhancement.

Makhachev’s fight against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 will test his ability to compete against larger opponents. His strategy, guided by Khabib Nurmagomedov, focuses on utilizing his grappling skills to tire out and submit Della Maddalena. The key question is whether Makhachev can maintain his dominance in a higher weight class where he won’t have a size advantage.

This move mirrors Ilia Topuria’s successful transition to lightweight, where he knocked out Charles Oliveira. Makhachev hopes for a similar outcome, aiming to prove that his added weight and strength will make him an even more formidable fighter.

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FAQ

Why is Islam Makhachev moving to welterweight?

To challenge Jack Della Maddalena for the UFC welterweight title and test himself in a new weight class.

What changes has Makhachev made to his training?

He’s focusing on gaining weight, using creatine for the first time, and training with bigger guys.

How will this weight change affect his performance?

Makhachev believes it will improve his recovery and strength, especially in later rounds.

Takeaways

  • Makhachev’s move to welterweight is a strategic decision to improve his overall performance by reducing the strain of weight cutting.
  • The use of creatine is a significant addition to his regimen, aiding in muscle growth and recovery.
  • His fight against Della Maddalena will be a crucial test of his adaptability and strength in a new weight class.

Discussion

Do you think Islam Makhachev will succeed in the welterweight division? Share your predictions and discuss the impact of his weight gain on his fighting style!

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