Islam Makhachev Hits 170 Pounds, Locking In His Half of the UFC 330 Main Event

Islam Makhachev stepped onto the scale on Friday and hit exactly 170 pounds, officially locking in his half of the UFC 330 welterweight championship main event. No drama, no towel tricks, just a guy ready to go to work.

For a fighter who has spent his career terrorizing the 155-pound lightweight division, hitting 170 probably felt like a vacation. Instead of looking like a guy who just survived a month on a desert island, Makhachev actually gets to step into the octagon fully hydrated and having eaten a carb this week.

"MMA Fighting reported: 'That’s one half official for Saturday’s welterweight championship main event.'"

He is moving up in weight to challenge Ian Machado Garry for the welterweight strap. It is the classic double-champ pursuit, a storyline the UFC loves to sell and fans love to buy.

Machado Garry brings a massive frame and an undefeated record to the cage. The Irishman has the striking and the reach to make this a nightmare on the feet, assuming he can actually stay on his feet.

That is the massive catch. Makhachev possesses the kind of suffocating grappling that makes world-class fighters look like they are drowning on dry land.

The betting markets and fight fans are all asking the same question heading into Saturday. Everyone wants to know if Makhachev's cardio and wrestling strength will translate against a naturally bigger guy who hits like a freight train.

We will find out soon enough. If Makhachev handles the size difference and takes the belt, the UFC is going to have a terrifying two-division king on its hands.