Islam Makhachev Caps off Vacation with ‘Horse Ride’ as Khabib Nurmagomedov Leaks Next Fight Details 

Islam Makhachev gives an update about his training camp after Khabib Nurmagomedov's latest leak about his next title fight. 

Islam Makhachev Caps off Vacation with ‘Horse Ride’ as Khabib Nurmagomedov Leaks Next Fight Details 

Islam Makhachev ends his vacation and starts his training camp (via X)

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A few months ago, Islam Makhachev vacated his UFC lightweight title to chase the double-champ status. He made the decision shortly after Jack Della Maddalena captured the welterweight crown by defeating Belal Muhammad at UFC 315. While fans eagerly awaited confirmation, no official announcement came until recently, when things finally started moving toward a historic showdown.

Former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov still plays a vital role in Makhachev’s fight camp, preparing him for every challenge. He was recently spotted in New York attending an event where he allegedly leaked details about Makhachev versus JDM at MSG. Shortly after that, Makhachev shared vacation photos online, signaling his break was over. 

Finished the vacation with a horse ride. Let’s work

Islam Makhachev via Instagram

Initially, it was Makhachev who expressed his desire to compete at Madison Square Garden, the mecca of combat sports. This iconic venue has hosted legends like Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, and MMA superstar Conor McGregor’s historic second title win. The Dagestani now aims to replicate that legendary success by defeating Della Maddalena and capturing his second UFC championship belt.

The Madison Square Garden event is reportedly scheduled for November 15th, giving Makhachev around 14 weeks for preparation. This timeline allows the former pound-for-pound king to properly bulk up for his highly anticipated welterweight division debut. The Dagestani star has frequently spoken about the difficulty of gaining size, and fans question how he’ll physically match up with Della Maddalena.

Right after winning the welterweight title, Della Maddalena accepted a fight with  Makhachev for his first defense. The Australian champion is determined to defeat the Dagestani and avenge his countryman Alexander Volkanovski’s past losses to Makhachev. Currently, JDM is actively training alongside the two-time featherweight champion to develop the perfect strategy against the former lightweight king.

Former UFC champ predicts Islam Makhachev vs. Jack Della Maddalena 

Islam Makhachev is an undeniable threat to any fighter in the UFC due to his remarkable winning streak and dominance. He possesses an elite level of talent in both striking and wrestling, making him one of the most well-rounded fighters in the entire sport. Makhachev’s grappling and his transitions are so fluid, and he has submitted fighters like Dustin Poirier and Charles Oliveira. 

Islam Makhachev vs. Jack Della Maddelena fight prediction
Islam Makhachev vs. Jack Della Maddelena fight prediction (via X)

On top of Makhachev’s impressive skillset, his fighting IQ stands out, but Jack Della Maddalena isn’t intimidated by it. JDM believes defeating Makhachev will bring him the fame, respect, and global recognition he needs as a rising UFC star. The fight has sparked massive discussion across the MMA world, with Sean O’Malley also recently weighing in on the matchup.

He’s not gonna be any smaller than Jack come fight night. When you skill level is that high, as Islam’s is, it’s interesting if he goes in there tries to shoot at Jack and Jack stuffs him and gets in his face but Islam’s striking is so underrated. Islam could put the hands on Jack. 

Sean O’Malley via FULL SEND PODCAST

Makhachev and his team understand the threat Della Maddalena brings to the table and don’t want to make any mistakes. Top superstars such as Israel Adesanya have predicted the welterweight champion to win against the Dagestani. 

Apart from JDM, Makhachev has also talked about his ongoing rivalry with the newly crowned lightweight champion, Ilia Topuria. According to Makhachev, he and the Georgian-Spanish fighter can fight for the P4P #1 spot in the future. However, before that, he might have to take care of the top welterweight contenders if he wins the belt.

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