Former UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has shown why preparation is everything in mixed martial arts. A video emerged of him delivering a powerful body shot to a sparring partner who reportedly arrived at training camp underprepared.
The Dagestani is currently preparing for his UFC welterweight debut against Jack Della Maddalena. He recently shared the intense training footage on his Instagram story, capturing the moment his teammate learned a valuable lesson.
In the video, Makhachev can be seen engaging with his sparring partner before connecting with a precise body kick that forces his teammate to take a defensive step backward. The champion then follows up with a straight punch to the midsection that immediately sends his training partner to the canvas.
“The man arrived at training camp unprepared. Now he’s experiencing the consequences,” Makhachev wrote alongside the video, making it clear that standards in his camp remain exceptionally high.
This isn’t the first time Makhachev has shared glimpses of his rigorous training methods. Earlier this month, another video went viral showing the 33-year-old champion rendering a PFL competitor unconscious during a grappling session.
While no official announcement has been made regarding his next match, reports suggest Makhachev will make his welterweight debut against Australian contender Jack Della Maddalena in November. According to former UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, this contest will be for the 170-pound championship.
Between training sessions, Makhachev has remained engaged with the UFC. He recently reacted to Khamzat Chimaev’s dominant performance against Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 with a social media post: “Congratulations, it was sure.”
The pound-for-pound superstar also showed his supportive side by encouraging Aaron Pico following his defeat to Lerone Murphy at the same event. Makhachev commented “Head up champ” on Pico’s post-bout statement.
