Joe Rogan isn't sure Islam Makhachev can handle welterweights with 'nuclear power' - mmajunkie.usatoday.com
UFC commentator Joe Rogan expressed concerns regarding Islam Makhachev's ability to compete against larger, more powerful welterweight fighters. Following Makhachev's recent title defense, Rogan noted that the champion struggled with the physical demands of moving up in weight class.
Why it matters
This analysis highlights the physical challenges and strategic shifts required for elite athletes moving between weight divisions in professional combat sports.
Joe Rogan is curious to see how UFC champion Islam Makhachev handles the next crop of welterweight contenders.
Makhachev (29-1 MMA, 18-1 UFC) notched his first title defense by outlasting Ian Machado Garry (17-2 MMA, 10-2 UFC) in Saturday's UFC 330 main event at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.
Makhachev suffered quite a bit of damage when he was cut and marked up in the fight. Although he failed on numerous takedown attempts, he eventually secured the decision win by controlling Machado Garry on the ground in Round 5. With top contenders Carlos Prates and Michael Morales waiting in the wings, Rogan says Makhachev will be dealing with even more size and power moving forward.
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