Islam Makhachev‘s calm, controlled reputation took a sharp turn this week after a video surfaced online showing the Dagestani champion losing his cool on the streets of New York. Just weeks before his historic UFC 322 fight against Jack Della Maddalena, the lightweight king turned welterweight contender looks to have found a new challenge — not in the Octagon, but in the city’s hectic traffic. Fans quickly picked up on the clip, claiming that Makhachev might be “turning American” after all.

The viral video, posted by @mma.pros.pick, shows a man in a hoodie, the same one Makhachev recently wore, furiously shouting, “F— you, b—-! How you drive?” at another driver. While his face was not visible, many were convinced that it was Makhachev based on his voice, accent, and conduct. With UFC 322 fast approaching, some speculated that the pressure of training for Della Maddalena had given him a new, raw edge, while others simply blamed New York traffic for this unusual emotional slip.

“Becoming American” — Fans have a field day with alleged clip of Islam Makhachev mouthing off

The online reactions were quick and amusing. “New York can bring out that side of people. I’m not surprised,” one fan wrote, while another joked, “Wlcm to America 🇺🇸 Habibi.” Others weighed in with comments like “Becoming American,” “He’s becoming a true New Yorker 😂,” and “The city even makes Islam talk like a taxi driver during work hours.”

What began as a heated argument rapidly devolved into a lighter conversation over whether Makhachev was slowly trading Dagestan peace for American chaos. However, not everyone was laughing, particularly those who knew how strict his famed coach, Khabib Nurmagomedov, can be, especially when it comes to carrying oneself in the public eye.

One fan commented, “Khabib gonna scold for saying that,” while another added, “@khabib_nurmagomedov does not condone rage roid,” and “Can’t wait to see Khabib’s reaction to it 😂.” Given Khabib’s long-standing mentality of composure and respect, fans were amused to see his protégé briefly abandon the renowned Dagestani discipline.

Some viewers, however, were simply shocked to see Makhachev so out of character. “Ain’t no way… 😭 Never seen bro say anything like this before,” while another joked, “WTF! Bro, this city is Gotham City without Batman. FR 😭.” For a fighter known for his quiet dominance, this surprise outburst of rage seemed almost surreal to longtime fans.

As the Madison Square Garden clash approaches, the viral moment has further heightened the intrigue surrounding Makhachev’s mindset. Whether it’s the stress of chasing double-championship status or simply the toll of New York’s rush hour, one thing is certain: the usually composed Dagestani has revealed an entirely different side of himself to fans, and it’s got everyone talking. In fact, even his camp is taking a completely different approach for UFC 322.

Jack Della Maddalena drives team Islam Makhachev to new extremes

If Islam Makhachev‘s heated New York moment hinted at increasing pressure, his camp’s preparation tells the full story. Coach Javier Mendez admitted that Jack Della Maddalena pushed the team to its limits, urging them to perfect every detail. This is not normal training; it is a deliberate grind in which no mistake is allowed. The generally composed Dagestani team understands that this is unlike any other task they’ve faced.

Mendez, who rarely dwells on tape, revealed that he watched Della Maddalena’s last fight five times, which he has never done for any opponent. “That’s how much I respect Jack,” he said. The Australian’s precise boxing and relentless speed have definitely piqued their interest, and even Mendez seems concerned. His message is clear: more than power; this war demands excellence.

However, Makhachev sees this pressure as fuel. Moving up to 170 is more than just adding another belt; it’s about proving his greatness transcends divisions. Every shout, sneer, and second of training appears to be part of that transformation. Madison Square Garden awaits, and Makhachev will not take any chances this time.