Islam Makhachev Gets Surprising Praise from Rival For Taking on a Challenge Khabib Nurmagomedov Never Did

Dan Hooker praises former rival Islam Makhachev for taking risks at UFC 322 and ranks him higher than Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Islam Makhachev Gets Surprising Praise from Rival For Taking on a Challenge Khabib Nurmagomedov Never Did

Dan Hooker compares Islam Makhachev to Khabib Nurmagomedov (via NZ Herald, Bleacher Report)

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Mixed martial arts continues to evolve as fighters explore new opportunities across different weight classes. The upcoming superfight between Islam Makhachev and Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight championship is one of the most talked-about bouts in the MMA community. Dan Hooker recently compared Makhachev’s career trajectory to that of UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov‘s.

Nurmagomedov is one of the most celebrated fighters in UFC history and casts a large shadow over any discussion involving lightweight dominance. He retired unbeaten, defending his title multiple times before stepping away from competition in 2020. His dominance in the octagon and cultural influence on the ground led to his induction into the UFC Hall of Fame.

Despite his historic success, Nurmagomedov never moved up in weight, which is a decision that contrasts with Makhachev’s current pursuit of a second title at welterweight. Hooker lost to Makhachev at UFC 267 via first-round submission and has been praising the Dagestani native since then. He recently appreciated Makhachev’s prowess and applauded his decision to pursue two-division championship status.

Credit to Islam for stepping up and coming to welterweight. Definitely got my respect for being able to move up and fight JDM. It’s something that even the greatest lightweight of all time, Khabib, never managed to chase as an accomplishment.

Dan Hooker via Sky Sports NZ

The move to welterweight represents a significant change in Makhachev’s career trajectory. After successfully defending his lightweight title multiple times, he is now looking to prove his versatility and endurance against heavier competition. The bout with Maddalena offers him a chance to expand his legacy beyond a single division, something few champions have attempted during their reigns.

Maddalena, meanwhile, remains one of the most dangerous finishers in the welterweight division. Known for his striking precision and composure under pressure, he will look to test Makhachev’s grappling-heavy style and adaptability. The matchup pits two fighters at the peak of their respective divisions against each other in what promises to be one of the most intriguing stylistic clashes of the year.

UFC 322 features a strong supporting lineup that heightens the anticipation surrounding the event. The co-main event sees Zhang Weili move up to challenge Valentino Shevchenko for flyweight gold, while former welterweight champion Leon Edwards takes on Carlos Prates. With these fights accompanying Islam Makhachev’s welterweight debut, UFC 322 promises to be one of the most compelling cards.

Jack Della Maddalena reveals why the Islam Makhachev fight is personal

Jack Della Maddalena is set for the biggest challenge of his career as he prepares to face former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev in a high-profile welterweight bout at UFC 322. The matchup comes at a crucial moment for Maddalena, who recently won the title at UFC 315. As one of Australia’s top MMA exports, the Perth native now carries the expectations of both Australian and New Zealand fans.

Jack Della Maddalena wants to take revenge for ANZAC teammates against Islam Makhachev
Jack Della Maddalena wants to take revenge for ANZAC teammates against Islam Makhachev (via CODE Sports, MMA Fighting)

The storyline has added depth, given Makhachev’s prior victories over prominent ANZAC fighters such as Alexander Volkanovski and Dan Hooker. Both Volkanovski and Hooker have shared the Octagon with the Dagestani superstar, but neither was able to overcome his grappling-heavy style. Maddalena now stands as the region’s next hope to halt Makhachev’s dominance and bring a statement win back to Oceania.

I’m gunning for it. I really want that win, obviously just for myself, but I’m gonna get it back, I’m gonna get that win for the team.

Jack Della Maddalena via Sky Sports NZ

With the added motivation of representing his team and home region, Jack Della Maddalena’s upcoming clash with Islam Makhachev has become more than just another title fight. It symbolizes an opportunity for ANZAC fighters to reclaim momentum against one of the sport’s most dominant champions.

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