One notable MMA icon turned analyst believes this will eventually be the case. Makhachev will challenge Jack Della Maddalena for the UFC welterweight championship on November 15. The superfight will headline UFC 322 at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
Makhachev has shown his dominance in the lightweight division. He left 155-pound gold after setting a new record for most successful lightweight title defenses in UFC history.
Despite Makhachev’s accolades, former UFC title challenger Kenny Florian doesn’t appear to be sold on his ability to take that success to 170 pounds. He discussed the fight during an edition of the “Anik & Florian Podcast” (via MMA Junkie).
“I think it’s just going to be different. The crazy thing about this is that everyone is now on the Islam Makhachev train, but I feel like there’s more pressure on Islam than on JDM, and JDM is the man who carries the belt.”
Ultimately, Florian believes there is a chance Makhachev will suffer an upset against a natural 170-pounder who is performing at his best.
“I like JDM in this place,” said Florian. “I think there’s a lot of value here. I like JDM. I think Islam Makhachev is a great fighter at 155 pounds, I just don’t know if he’s a great welterweight.”
Maddalena captured the UFC welterweight championship in May. He defeated Makhachev’s teammate Belal Muhammad to take the gold by unanimous decision. It was ‘JDM’s’ takedown defense and sharp boxing skills that carried him to victory.
Mohammed’s loss opened the door for Makhachev to move up in weight and compete for the 170-pound gold. It won’t be long before fans find out if Makhachev will win UFC gold in a second weight class.
BJPenn.com will keep you informed throughout the UFC 322 fight week. Check out the homepage during Fight Night for live results, video highlights and reactions from professional fighters.
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