The Ultimate Fighter: Islam Makhachev's 60% Performance and the Aussie Champ's Worries
The highly anticipated UFC 322 event is set to take place on November 15th, and the main event features a thrilling showdown between Islam Makhachev and Jack Della Maddalena. Makhachev, a former lightweight champion, is making his welterweight debut and has revealed a concerning aspect of his preparation that could impact his performance.
In an interview with ESPN, Makhachev stated that cutting 10 kg or more for the lightweight division has left him with a recovery rate of only 60%. This means that despite his best efforts, he feels he can only recover to about 60% of his full capacity after a grueling 30-hour cut. Makhachev's statement is particularly striking given his impressive resume, which includes a 15-fight win streak and five consecutive lightweight title defenses.
The 34-year-old Makhachev has been on an undefeated streak since 2015, defeating top contenders like Alex Volkanovski, Charles Oliveira, and Dustin Poirier. However, he claims that his performance has been hindered by the weight cut, and he is eager to showcase his true potential in the welterweight division.
Another factor that could impact the fight is Makhachev's recent introduction of creatine supplements to his training regimen. Creatine is a well-researched supplement known for enhancing strength, speed, and explosiveness. Makhachev's decision to use creatine for the first time in his career could provide him with a significant edge over his opponent.
Makhachev's coach and UFC Hall of Famer, Khabib Nurmagomedov, will be in his corner, providing strategic guidance. Nurmagomedov, renowned for his dominant grappling skills, has instructed Makhachev to take the fight to the canvas and wear down Della Maddalena. Makhachev believes he can finish the fight on the ground, utilizing techniques like a chokehold or armbar.
Della Maddalena, the Australian welterweight champion, is well aware of the threat Makhachev poses. To counter this, he has welcomed Alex Volkanovski, a former lightweight champion, into his training camp. Volkanovski, along with Australian BJJ star Craig Jones, has been helping Della Maddalena refine his skills and boost his confidence.
Della Maddalena's head coach, Ben Vickers, has praised the collaboration, calling it the 'Dream Team.' Vickers believes that the additional skills and confidence gained from training with Volkanovski and Jones will elevate Della Maddalena to his full potential leading up to the fight.
Former UFC middleweight champion Rob Whittaker also predicts an upset victory for Della Maddalena. He highlights Della Maddalena's ability to handle takedowns and his overall striking prowess, suggesting that he has the 'x-factor' needed to overcome Makhachev's takedown attempts.
