The founder of the AKA gym, **Javier Mendes**, expressed his admiration for the physical condition of his fighter **Islam Makhachev** ahead of the Russian’s debut in the UFC welterweight division. On November 16, Makhachev will face the promotion’s welterweight champion, **Jack Della Maddalena**, at the UFC 322 event.

“When I arrived at the camp and saw Islam for the first time over a month ago, I thought, ‘What the heck?’ He looks incredible. I was really impressed. Watching his training sessions, I was amazed at how much he has improved. And after his first sparring session, I was just blown away. He has adapted beautifully to the new weight class,” Mendes said in an interview with MMA Junkie on their **YouTube** channel.

[Why Makhachev is pursuing a second UFC title:](https://www.championat.com/video/276530-pochemu-mahachev-poshyol-za-vtorym-poyasom-ufc/)