Ali Abdelaziz promises Islam Makhachev's evolution in his welterweight debut: 'Best version'

I. Makhachev (dir.) next to the UFC 254Ali Abdelaziz. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

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In preparation for the most important fight of his career, Islam makhachev He is in his best form for the duel against Jack Della Maddalena, valid for the welterweight belt (up to 77,1 kg) at UFC 322, on November 16th. At least, this is the opinion of the controversial Ali Abdelaziz, the Russian's manager. According to him, adapting to the new weight class has further enhanced the skills of the former lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg), who hasn't lost in over a decade, since being knocked out by Brazilian Adriano Martins.

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Abdelaziz spoke about the subject in an interview with 'Submission Radio' this Monday (3). According to him, not going through the weight cutting process has been drastically changing the fighter's performance.

“He is the best version of Islam today. If this Islam fought against the old Islam, he would beat him in the first round. He is big, strong, healthy and happy — he is not suffering from weight loss. He is very, very strong and makes everyone look like amateurs,” said the Egyptian.

Ali Abdelaziz gives an update on Islam makhachev ahead of his fight with Jack Della

“He's the best version of Islam right now. If this Islam fought the old Islam, he'd beat him in the first round. He's big, strong, healthy, and happy — not suffering from cutting weight. He's… pic.twitter.com/jklodlOf2x

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) November 3, 2025

Islam Makhachev could equal Anderson Silva.

Islam makhachev comes from victory against Renato Moicano No. UFC 311. Photo: Instagram/UFC Espanol

One of the biggest names in the UFC today, Islam makhachev could reach a historic milestone at UFC 322. Tied with Kamaru UsmanThe Russian has amassed 15 consecutive victories in the organization, second only to the legendary [player's name]. Anderson Silva, who has 16. In addition to the record, he also aims to become another fighter to win belts in two different weight classes.