Cain Velasquez praises Islam Makhachev’s dominance ahead of UFC 330 title defense

**Cain Velasquez** has thrown his weight behind Islam Makhachev’s upcoming welterweight title defense, labeling the Dagestani fighter a ‘special athlete’ who will keep dominating the division.**

On 19 July, Velasquez told Red Corner MMA that Makhachev is one of the sport’s elite talents. The Dagestani, 34, captured the welterweight belt in November 2025 to become the eleventh man to hold UFC titles in two divisions. Now he defends that crown against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 on 16 August in Philadelphia.

What did Cain Velasquez say about Islam Makhachev?

Velasquez, a two-time UFC heavyweight champion, trained at American Kickboxing Academy alongside Khabib Nurmagomedov and Daniel Cormier. He worked with Makhachev during that period and still speaks regularly with AKA head coach Javier Mendez.

“He’s a special type of athlete, as we all know,” Velasquez said. “He’s one of those guys at the pinnacle of the sport. I talk to Javier all the time, and Islam and those guys are always doing great. They’re in great hands.”

Why does Velasquez back Makhachev so strongly?

Velasquez pointed to Makhachev’s mastery across all aspects of MMA as the reason for his confidence. The Dagestani’s wrestling and grappling have stifled elite opposition, including Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315 in November 2025.

“He’s somebody who has mastered all aspects of MMA,” Velasquez added. “I see Islam just continuing to do what he’s been doing, and that’s winning impressively.”

What’s at stake for Makhachev at UFC 330?

Makhachev’s first welterweight defense comes against Garry, a 26-year-old Irish contender who has talked up his chances of pulling off the upset. The fight headlines UFC 330 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia on 16 August.

Velasquez’s endorsement adds weight to Makhachev’s status as the division’s top dog. The Dagestani’s blend of grappling, striking and fight IQ has drawn comparisons to past champions who dominated across multiple weight classes.

What’s next for Cain Velasquez?

Velasquez, 43, remains active in the sport as a coach and commentator. He attended IBA Bare Knuckle 6 in Miami alongside Jon Jones earlier this month, where he discussed Makhachev’s progress.

With Makhachev’s welterweight reign under the microscope, Velasquez’s words carry extra weight. The Dagestani’s next move could shape the division for years to come.