Weight cuts in combat sports are notorious for being grueling and challenging. For many UFC fighters, these weight cuts might even be tougher than the actual fights! In this realm, one fighter who has had his fair share of weight-cutting struggles is lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.

Makhachev, known for his exceptional grappling skills and dominant performances, has often faced the daunting task of cutting significant amounts of weight in order to make the required weight limit for his fights. The toll of these weight cuts can be physically and mentally draining, requiring strict discipline and sacrifice.

Recently, an old video resurfaced, shedding light on the challenges Makhachev faces during his weight cuts. The video, posted by ESPN MMA on Instagram, features Makhachev and fellow fighter Alistair Overeem in the same room. Most likely, the video is set a day before their UFC fight. Overeem, a natural heavyweight, is enjoying a meal in the video.

Islam Makhachev struggles with weight cuts!

However, Makhachev can be seen abstaining from eating in the video. This can be likely due to his need to shed additional pounds to meet the required weight limit. In the video, an irritated Makhachev remarks, “Alistair no respect, brother.”

The video received attention not only from fans but also garnered reactions from notable fighters. Makhachev himself commented on this video with laughing emojis. UFC welterweight star Kamaru Usman had a similar response. Derek Brunson commented twice, writing “lol . No respect” and “0 Fs given”.

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Many fans appeared to criticize Makhachev‘s weight-cutting struggles, questioning his abilities and suggesting that he should compete in a higher-weight class. Here are some of the fan reactions –

• “Bro lost to a midget and only fights non grapplers”
• “Don’t worry, you’ll get your extra IVs soon”
• “Islam is the funniest among them dagestani’s.”
• “That’s because him and allstair walk around the same weight.”
• “I mean step it up to welterweight and you won’t have that problem.”
• “He could always grow a pair and fight at 170 too and he wouldn’t have to be like that.”
• “Man should fight at his natural weight class. Man walks around heavier than Colby.”
• “Probably shouldn’t be a weight bully then.”

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The video is set days before UFC Fight Night 149, which was held on April 20, 2019. Interestingly, Alistair Overeem lost his fight against Aleksei Oleinik in the event. On the other hand, Makhachev was able to win against Arman Tsarukyan. The resurfaced video has served as a glimpse into the difficulties Makhachev encounters during his weight cuts.