Makhachev Says Welterweight Contenders Top Lightweights

Islam Makhachev believes welterweight contenders are better than their lightweight counterparts — and it has nothing to do with size.

The UFC welterweight champion, who defends his title against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 in Philadelphia on Saturday, called welterweight the more competitive division during the fight week press conference. "I'm going to defend my title. Welterweight is more competitive division, I have more good opponents, that is why I want to fight more years because we have real contenders in this division," Makhachev said, per BJPenn.com.

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Makhachev Dismisses Retirement Rumors Ahead Of UFC 330

The claim arrives despite lightweight being widely viewed as one of the UFC's deepest weight classes. Makhachev vacated that belt to move up and captured welterweight gold with a decision win over Jack Della Maddalena. He now sits at 28-1 and has repeatedly dismissed speculation that UFC 330 could be his final appearance.

Makhachev told TMZ Sports he has no plans to walk away from the sport. "No, no, no. I told you I like to be UFC champion and we're still going," he said. "It's not about numbers, about age. It's about your health, how you feel. Not everybody can feel the same at 34. That's why I feel great. No injuries. I still enjoy the sports, you know. That's why we will fight again."

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The bout with Garry marks Makhachev's first welterweight title defense. Weigh-ins are Friday in Philadelphia.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Islam Makhachev details key difference between welterweight and lightweight contenders ahead of UFC 330