Makhachev's coach says he's impressed with his protégé's physical form ahead of his welterweight debut

Islam Makhachev is the next challenger for the welterweight title. Photo: Reproduction/UFC

Protagonista do UFC 322, Islam Makhachev se prepara para realizar aguardada estreia na divisão dos meio-médios (até 77,1kg.). Além da mudança de categoria, o russo também vai pisar no octógono para disputar cinturão contra Jack Della Maddalena em 15 de novembro. Além da confiança de apostadores, que o fazem ser favorito para confronto nas cotações atuais, o russo também impressiona seu técnico Javier Mendez.

Back in Russia after a period abroad, the team's mentor admitted to being impressed by his protégé's physical transformation a month before his next UFC fight. In Javier's view, the former champion's strength is astonishing.

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“Unbelievable. When I walked into training camp, because I've been here in Dubai all this time, and I saw him for the first time over a month ago, and I was looking at him like, 'What the hell?' I said, 'Wow! He's strong.' So I was really impressed by that. I asked, 'How do you feel?' He said, 'Great, coach,' and I watched him train, I watched what he was doing, and I was really impressed,” Mendez told MMAJunkie.

Javier Mendez ao lado de Islam Makhachev em foto publicada recentemente. Foto: Reprodução/X

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Continuing with his speech, the coach reinforced his delight with Makhachev's change and guaranteed that a new achievement will be achieved on November 15th.

“Então ele fez seu primeiro sparring e eu fiquei impressionado. Fiquei impressionado com a qualidade dele e como ele se adaptou ao peso. Portanto, estou muito confiante nele e, independentemente do que digam, ele ainda é o número um em termos de peso aos meus olhos. Esse é o meu cara. Islam Makhachev, o número um em termos de peso, e a nova versão dele está chegando, e ele será o novo campeão meio-médio do UFC”, concluiu.

Jack Della Maddalena will face Islam Makhachev next. Photo: Reproduction/Montage SUPER LUTAS

In pursuit of his coveted second title in the organization, Makhachev sharpens his weapons before flying to New York (USA). A few days before his fight, the athlete avoids provoking Maddalena.