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Khabib Nurmagomedov Names the Biggest Welterweight Threats for Islam Makhachev

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kevin Binoy | Last updated Aug 26, 2025 1:58 AM ET

Islam Makhachev has already proven himself as the king of the lightweights, running through just about every top contender before vacating his belt to chase new challenges. Now, all signs point to his welterweight debut coming later this year most likely at UFC 322 inside the iconic Madison Square Garden.

As anticipation builds, fans and analysts alike are speculating how the lightweight champ will handle the jump in weight. And who better to weigh in than Khabib Nurmagomedov? The former undefeated champion and Makhachev’s longtime mentor recently broke down the welterweight landscape, highlighting which fighters pose the biggest threats to his protégé.

While speaking to Kamil Gadzhiyev, Nurmagomedov shared his thoughts on the competitors he feels pose the biggest threat to Makhachev. ‘The Eagle’ said, “In the welterweight division, I see Shavkat as someone who commands respect and brings real risk. Shavkat, Belal. Ian Garry, I wouldn't consider him such a serious threat... I don't see Sean Brady as a big threat. Stylistically, he's too convenient for Islam. Islam would outstrike him, and if they grappled, Islam would control him...Shavkat, Belal and Maddalena.”

Khabib breaks down the welterweight division ahead of Islam's 170 debut:

"In the welterweight division, I see Shavkat as someone who commands respect and brings real risk. Shavkat, Belal.

Ian Garry, I wouldn't consider him such a serious threat... I don't see Sean Brady as a… pic.twitter.com/uwGYRzBjYr
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) August 26, 2025

While speaking about the former lightweight champ, he explained that all the key pieces are already in place for the fight. “I think all the verbal agreements already exist,” he said, hinting that the deal is basically done and everyone is just waiting on the green light. He added that he expects the announcement to come very soon, likely within the next couple of weeks.

Khabib Nurmagomedov Breaks Down What Makes Jack Della Maddalena Dangerous

Nurmagomedov had nothing but respect for welterweight champ Jack Della Maddalena, calling him one of the most well-rounded fighters in the division. He pointed out how Della Maddalena has already proven himself against elite competition, out-grappling and out-wrestling guys like Belal Muhammad and Gilbert Burns, two fighters he himself rates highly in those areas.

On the feet, he’s shown his striking credentials too, beating long, rangy opponents like Kevin Holland without much trouble. What makes him even trickier, Nurmagomedov added, is that Della Maddalena trains out of the same camp as Alexander Volkanovski.

That team has already prepped for Makhachev twice, and while Volk didn’t manage to get the win, they now have plenty of experience, data and footage to work with in building a game plan against Makhachev.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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