Makhachev Tells Cancer Patient 'Never Give Up' After UFC 330

Islam Makhachev delivered a personal message to a cancer patient backstage at UFC 330 after breaking Anderson Silva's UFC consecutive-win record Saturday night.

The welterweight champion flew Valentin, who is battling cancer, to Philadelphia for the event and met with him after stopping Ian Machado Garry in the main event. Makhachev's message, captured by Anatomy of a Fighter, drew on his own fight performance as motivation.

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Makhachev's Message To Fan After Garry Win

"You see, from the first second to last second I go war. I have hard time, but never give up," Makhachev told Valentin in footage posted by Championship Rounds. "Also yourself, never give up, okay? You are warrior."

The two had first met Thursday ahead of the UFC 330 press conference. Valentin attended the fights with his daughter Alexis before returning to Salem, Oregon for ongoing treatment, per BJPenn.com.

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Makhachev's win over Garry marked his first successful welterweight title defense after claiming the belt from Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 earlier this year. The victory extended his winning streak beyond Silva's historic mark.

UFC commentator Joe Rogan suggested after the bout that Makhachev should return to lightweight for his next fight. The champion vacated that belt last year following a win over Renato Moicano at UFC 311. Rising contender Carlos Prates is expected to get the next welterweight title shot.

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• BJPenn — VIDEO | Islam Makhachev shares heartwarming message with cancer patient after UFC 330: ‘Never give up!’