Champion Islam Makhachev anticipates a difficult challenge and shows respect for his future UFC rivals.

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

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On August 15th, in Philadelphia (USA), Islam Makhachev began his reign in the UFC welterweight division (up to 77,1 kg). The legendary Russian defended his title for the first time by defeating Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision. As the fight was quite demanding, especially physically, the champion anticipates that what's to come will be even more challenging.

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In an interview with 'Red Corner MMA', Makhachev showed respect for his next opponents. It's true that the champion, who just defeated the Irishman, has no scheduled return to the octagon , but he admits that the dangerous Carlos Prates , Michael Morales , and Shavkat Rakhmonov are in a position to challenge him for the title.

Therefore, the Russian acknowledges that his upcoming fights, even without mentioning names, shouldn't be easy, despite always being considered the favorite by bookmakers to win. And Makhachev's concern is understandable, since he himself indicates that he is in the final stretch of his career and needs to get stronger to deal with the current competition in the welterweight division, which is taller, heavier, and more powerful.

"What I know is that there are great contenders for the belt in my category. So, I think I have at least three more very difficult and exciting fights waiting for me," he said.

Makhachev promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

Makhachev's history 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 29 wins and one loss. The welterweight champion's main victories were over Alexander Volkanovski (twice), Arman Tsarukyan , Charles Oliveira , Dustin Poirier , Ian Machado Garry , Jack Della Maddalena , and Renato Moicano.

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