Khabib Nurmagomedov: Jack Della Maddalena tougher for Islam Makhachev than Ilia Topuria
Former lightweight titleholder Makhachev (27-1 MMA, 16-1 UFC), who has the most successful defenses in divisional history, will venture to welterweight later this year when he challenges champion Della Maddalena (18-2 MMA, 8-0 UFC) for the belt and the opportunity to further enhance his legacy.
Many MMA fans wanted Makhachev to stay at 155 pounds and face Ilia Topuria, who since captured the vacant strap with a first-round knockout of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 in June. That didn't happen, and it's not because of ducking or fear. Makhachev explained to MMA Junkie in a recent interview that he's pushed by wanting greatness of a second belt, and his coach Nurmagomedov said it's going to be no easy task.
'I think Maddalena is the toughest opponent in Islam's career," Nurmagomedov told Hustle Show. "That's my opinion. Not Charles (Oliveira), no one else. None of those other fighters. Not even Ilia, if that fight were to happen. That's just my personal opinion.
"First of all, Maddalena is twice the size of Ilia. Taller, bigger, stronger legs, bigger frame. His boxing is just as good. And, in grappling, he scrambles really well if you've watched him. For me, if I was preparing Islam for either Ilia or Maddalena, I'd be more concerned about Maddalena."
Nurmagomedov isn't isolated in his stance. Makhachev also praised Della Maddalena as a tough test when breaking down the expected contest.
With 15 straight octagon victories on his resume, Makhachev will have the opportunity to not only become the 11th in UFC history to claim belts in two separate weight classes, but he can also tie Anderson Silva's longstanding record of most consecutive UFC wins at 16.
'It's going to be a hard fight," Makhachev told MMA Junkie. "Honestly, it's going to be. I saw his fight against Belal (Muhammad). He's good, man. When he began fighting in the UFC, he had problems with wrestling, but now he's improved because I've seen him training a lot with wrestlers and grapplers, and that's why he's champion right now. He's good everywhere. But we will see who's the best fighter in the world very soon.'
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