Javier Mendez: Islam Makhachev has added 11 pounds of muscle, prefers welterweight

Coach Javier Mendez said Islam Makhachev plans to remain at welterweight, clarifying the champion's path and weight-class intentions. Mendez told Alvaro Colmenero that Islam Makhachev has added five kilos of muscle since moving to welterweight and feels better at 170. The champion is scheduled to defend the welterweight title at UFC 330 against Ian Garry on Aug. 15 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia. Makhachev previously defended the UFC lightweight title four times before dethroning Jack Della Maddalena at 170. Mendez does not expect him to switch divisions. While Makhachev once mentioned middleweight, recent attention has centered on 170-pound contenders, including Carlos Prates.