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

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

In preparation for the most important fight of his career, Islam Makhachev is in top form for his duel against Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight title (up to 77,1 kg) at UFC 322 on November 16th. At least, that's 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 is coming off a victory against Renato Moicano at UFC 311. Photo: Instagram/UFC Español

One of the biggest names in the UFC today, Islam Makhachev could reach a historic milestone at UFC 322. Tied with Kamaru Usman , the Russian has 15 consecutive wins in the organization, second only to the legendary 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.

Johnny Walker opens up about his heavyweight debut at UFC 332.