Islam Makhachev could be in a world of trouble if he doesn’t manage his output against UFC welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena later tonight (Sat., Nov. 15, 2025) at UFC 322 LIVE on ESPN+ pay-per-view (PPV) from inside Madison Square Garden in New York City.
This is according to UFC legend Georges St-Pierre, who believes that Makhachev might feel the negative effects of fighting with extra weight.
Makhachev, who looked physically well at Friday’s UFC 322 weigh ins (repay HERE), is moving up to 170 pounds for the first time in his career. The former UFC lightweight champion has dominated the competition throughout the years on the back of elite wrestling, top pressure, and a gas tank that never quits. Fight fans are curious how that fight style will translate to a heavier and more dangerous weight class.
St-Pierre, who is familiar with changing divisions and claiming multiple UFC titles, is warning Makhachev that the extra weight could feel like a “backpack” in the later rounds. If Makhachev isn’t careful GSP believes he could fade in the later rounds and give JDM a chance to pull off the upset.
”When you move up and try to put on muscle mass, especially for the first fight at a new weight, you’re probably going to feel like you’re fighting with a backpack — you’re carrying more weight, and your body isn’t used to it yet,” said St-Pierre in a recent interview with MMA reporter Helen Yee.
“So if the fight goes into deep waters, it might actually favor JDM because of that. Islam might get tired.”
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