Islam Makhachev gave up the lightweight belt to chase a second championship at welterweight against Jack Della Maddalena. Now, ahead of UFC 322, he’s talking about wanting to recreate that feeling he had when he first became champion.

Talking to UFC, Makhachev recalls the emotions he felt after winning his first belt, which came against Charles Oliveira. The former lightweight champ believes he’s in his prime right now and doesn’t want to retire without capturing gold in a second division. If he does it, he would even surpass Khabib Nurmagomedov.

“I remember when I fought for the belt the first time and the emotions I had. I want to feel that again. It’s my prime time, and I don’t want to leave this sport without a second belt,” Makhachev said.

Della Maddalena stands in his way with an

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