New York: Paddy Pimblett has heaped praise on Islam Makhachev, calling the Dagestani star “one of the best ever” following his dominant win at UFC 322.
Makhachev, who had vacated his lightweight title earlier this year to move up in weight, outclassed Jack Della Maddalena over five rounds to secure a unanimous decision victory (50-45, 50-45, 50-45) and become a two-division UFC champion on Saturday night at Madison Square Garden, New York.
The performance strengthened Makhachev’s legacy and drew widespread admiration, including from rising lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett, who discussed the bout on his YouTube channel.
“Pound-for-pound No.1, lad. Unbelievable performance,” Pimblett said. “I think he goes down as one of the best ever.”
Pimblett also reacted to Ilia Topuria’s recent callout of Makhachev, suggesting there are several deserving contenders already in line for a welterweight title shot.
“Ilia wants to move up and fight him, but there are other contenders now — Michael Morales, Carlos Prates, and Ian Garry if he beats Belal Muhammad next week. Shavkat Rakhmonov as well, who’s been No.1 contender for a year. They’re all exciting matchups for Islam.”
Pimblett added that Makhachev’s move to welterweight could shift the balance of excitement between the UFC’s two most talent-stacked divisions.
“The welterweight division could now be more exciting than lightweight. No division has been as exciting as lightweight for over 10 years. Good times for the sport.”
Makhachev’s next opponent and timeline remain uncertain, but the welterweight title picture has never looked more intriguing.
