UFC 322 Weigh-In: Makhachev, Zhang Aim for Two-Division Glory, Dariush Faces Weight Issues
The highly anticipated UFC 322 fight card is set to proceed this Saturday at Madison square Garden, but not without some pre-fight drama surrounding weight. Several fighters took to the scales, with some successfully hitting their marks while others faced challenges. Let’s break down the key details you need to know.
Makhachev’s welterweight Debut
Islam Makhachev,the former lightweight champion,is boldly stepping up to the 170-pound division to challenge Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight title. He weighed in at a solid 170 pounds, marking the first time he’s competed outside of the lightweight class in his UFC career.
This move represents a significant ambition for Makhachev – to become the latest UFC fighter to hold championships in two different weight classes. You can expect a fascinating stylistic clash as he tests his skills against a formidable opponent in Della Maddalena, who also tipped the scales at 18-2.
Zhang Weili‘s Flyweight Title Bid
On the women’s side,former strawweight champion Zhang Weili is also pursuing two-division dominance. She’s moving up to challenge Valentina Shevchenko for the flyweight title.
Both Zhang and Shevchenko successfully made weight at 124.6 pounds,setting the stage for a compelling showdown. This fight promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the most accomplished female fighters in the sport.
Dariush Misses lightweight Limit
Unfortunately, Beneil Dariush encountered difficulties making weight for his non-title bout against Benoit Saint Denis. He weighed in at 157.2 pounds, exceeding the 156-pound limit for lightweight contests.
Despite the miss, the fight is still scheduled to take place on the main card. While the exact financial penalty remains undisclosed – fighter purses are private in New York – this marks the second time Dariush has failed to meet the weight requirement in his professional career, the first occurring back in 2020.
Here’s a quick recap of the key weigh-in results:
* Islam Makhachev (27-1): 170 pounds (Welterweight Title Fight)
* Jack Della Maddalena (18-2): 170 pounds
* Zhang Weili (26-3): 124.6 pounds (Flyweight Title Fight)
* Valentina Shevchenko (25-4-1): 124.6 pounds
* Beneil Dariush (23-6-1): 157.2 pounds (Non-Title Lightweight Bout)
* Benoit Saint Denis (15-3): Weight not specified.
As UFC 322 approaches, the excitement is palpable. You can anticipate a night of high-stakes action as these athletes battle for championship glory and solidify their legacies in the world of mixed martial arts. it’s going to be a memorable event,and we’ll be here to cover all the action as it unfolds.