Islam Makhachev Trolls Khabib Nurmagomedov for Making UFC 322 Camp a Nightmare

UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov returns to Islam Makhachev's training camp ahead of UFC 322 superfight.

Islam Makhachev Trolls Khabib Nurmagomedov for Making UFC 322 Camp a Nightmare

Islam Makhachev trolls Khabib Nurmagomedov's training (via Bloody Elbow, ESPN)

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Islam Makhachev’s transition to the welterweight division has become one of the biggest storylines leading into UFC 322. The Dagestani superstar is set to challenge Jack Della Maddalena for the 170-pound title. The event also marks Makhachev’s first appearance at welterweight following his decision to vacate the lightweight championship earlier this year in pursuit of two-division champion status.

Makhachev’s preparation for his welterweight debut took place under the guidance of Javier Mendez at the American Kickboxing Academy in California. Despite the division change, his training has remained rooted in the same Dagestani wrestling principles and disciplined approach. The same training had helped him dominate the likes of Charles Oliveira, Alexander Volkanovski, and Dustin Poirier.

However, as UFC 322 is set to take place at Madison Square Garden, Makhachev has landed in New York and is training at the Frankie Edgar Iron Army Academy. One of the most vital aspects of Makhachev’s camp is his relationship with Khabib Nurmagomedov, who has finally arrived in New York and recently inquired about Makhachev’s well-being. However, the ex-champ had a hilarious reply to his mentor.

Everything was fine until you arrived two days ago. Berkhamov weighs ninety-one kilos. Before I worked with a guy who used to weigh eighty-three to eighty-four kilos max.

Islam Makhachev via X

Nurmagomedov returns to Makhachev’s corner after his UFC 311 title defense against Renato Moicano. The former lightweight champion makes his presence known in Makhachev’s camp immediately by raising the level of competition he is training with. His presence undoubtedly signals the reunion of a coaching unit that previously guided Makhachev through multiple title defenses.

Della Maddalena, known for his sharp boxing and striking efficiency, presents a new stylistic challenge for Makhachev. The Australian champion has established himself as one of the most dangerous finishers in the division, making this matchup a true clash of grappling mastery versus striking precision. The contest will serve as a litmus test for Makhachev’s ability to carry his dominance into a heavier weight class.

As UFC 322 approaches, Islam Makhachev’s pursuit of dual-division success adds another layer of intrigue to an already stacked event. With Khabib Nurmagomedov once again guiding him from the sidelines, the bout represents a continuation of Dagestani dominance. His attempt to dethrone JDM could not only reshape the welterweight landscape but also cement his status among the sport’s all-time greats.

Islam Makhachev pays a tribute to late coach Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov

There is no doubt that Dagestan has emerged as a global force in MMA, producing champions and contenders across multiple organizations, and Khabib Nurmagomedov is credited as a trailblazer for Caucasus domination in the MMA community. Behind that success, however, stands the legacy of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, the late coach whose vision and discipline laid the foundation.

Islam Makhachev commends Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov
Islam Makhachev commends Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov (via Instagram)

Known for his structured training methods and emphasis on mental composure, Abdulmanap’s work extended beyond coaching individual athletes; he created a blueprint for success that blended wrestling fundamentals with tactical precision. Islam Makhachev recently paid tribute to his late coach and acknowledged the lasting impact Abdulmanap had on both the sport and their homeland.

It’s all about Abdulmanap’s legacy — our coach who is not with us right now. After 10–15 years, people are going to understand what he did for our country, for MMA, and for sports. One thing I miss is that he’s not in the cage with us when we perform and win the belts. I think he’s proud of us. We still thank him every day for what he did for us. It has to be a big movie for people to understand what he did.

Islam Makhachev via ESPN

Makhachev’s recognition of Abdulmanap’s contributions highlighted the profound impact of his mentor’s teachings on the current generation of Dagestani athletes. Even after his passing in 2020, his students continue to excel internationally, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most pivotal figures in modern MMA.

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