“It’s My Prime Time” – Islam Makhachev Hungry To Relive His First Championship Glory

Islam Makhachev (Photo By Imagn Images)

Islam Makhachev gave up the lightweight belt to chase a second championship at welterweight against Jack Della Maddalena. Now, ahead of UFC 322, he’s talking about wanting to recreate that feeling he had when he first became champion. 

Talking to UFC, Makhachev recalls the emotions he felt after winning his first belt, which came against Charles Oliveira. The former lightweight champ believes he’s in his prime right now and doesn’t want to retire without capturing gold in a second division. If he does it, he would even surpass Khabib Nurmagomedov.

“I remember when I fought for the belt the first time and the emotions I had. I want to feel that again. It’s my prime time, and I don’t want to leave this sport without a second belt,” Makhachev said.

Islam Makhachev wants to feel the feeling of being champion once again 💪😤 #UFC322

"I remember when I fought for the belt the first time and the emotions I had. I want to feel that again. It’s my prime time, and I don’t want to leave this sport without a second belt."

(via… pic.twitter.com/42MAFjVWRf

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) November 8, 2025

Della Maddalena stands in his way with an 18-fight winning streak. JDM beat Belal Muhammad to claim the welterweight title and is now making his first defense against one of the most dangerous grapplers in the sport.

Most fighters would be content defending one belt multiple times. But Makhachev wants more – he wants to prove himself at a heavier weight class and join the small group who’ve held titles in two divisions.

Manager Ali Abdelaziz Hypes Islam Makhachev Ahead Of UFC 322

Islam Makhachev (Image Credits: Imagn Images)

Ali Abdelaziz dismissed any concerns about Makhachev moving up in weight. He’s confident his fighter brings the same dominance to welterweight that he showed at lightweight. The division change doesn’t alter what makes Makhachev special.

“Different weight, same beast. Islam going for a second title — that’s what real greatness looks like,” Abdelaziz said.

The manager’s confidence reflects what Team Khabib believes about Makhachev’s skill set. His grappling, control, and fight IQ should translate up to 170 pounds without losing effectiveness. They don’t see the bigger welterweights as a problem for his style.

“It’s My Prime Time” – Islam Makhachev Hungry To Relive His First Championship Glory
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