Before he faces off against Jack Della Maddalena in the UFC 322 main event this weekend, it’s clear Islam Makhachev is in a confident but playful frame of mind.
During a pre-fight press conference, the blisteringly skilled Russian fighter was asked to reveal how he plans to celebrate should he wind up with both belts by the end of the night. Notably, the person asking the question was indeed Complex’s own, Matthew Welty.
“Maybe all of you guys can come to Dagestan and we celebrate together,” Makhachev joked, referencing a frequently heard phrase of his that has taken on a life of its own among fans. “For two, three years.”
As seen in footage from Thursday's presser, the crowd immediately erupted in response to Makhachev's answer.
Earlier this week, the 34-year-old jokingly broke down which UFC fighters needed to spend some time of their own in Dagestan, with Makhachev’s Saturday night opponent Della Maddalena among those getting a mention.
Saturday’s Main Card will be broadcast exclusively on ESPN+ PPV here in the States. Starting in 2026, however, fans can look forward to what’s been billed as a more streamlined viewing experience, sans PPV. As we reported back in August, Paramount has entered into a seven-year deal with TKO Group Holdings that will make it the exclusive home of UFC’s full slate of marquee numbered events and 30 Fight Nights.
“For the first time ever, fans in the US will have access to all UFC content without a Pay-Per-View model, making it more affordable and accessible to view the greatest fights on a massive platform,” UFC CEO and president Dana White said when announcing the deal.