The UFC 322 main event has knocked our socks off with an iconic fight that’ll surely be a sight to see regardless of the outcome. We’re all hyped up for the Islam Makhachev vs Jack Della Maddalena fight!
A dominant champion is moving up in weight and is against one of the welterweight division’s most dangerous rising contenders. And we’re getting into all the nitty-gritty details about it!
Islam Makhachev: Style, Strengths, & Record
On one hand, we have a mind-boggling Islam Makhachev record of 27-1. This absolute beast is looking to become the UFC’s 11th two-weight champion. Whispers around the block are all about his dominant wrestling and grappling style.
His smothering top control and suffocating positional dominance will surely be a huge advantage in Islam Makhachev’s next fight. He also possesses exceptional cardio and fight IQ, which may even enhance his chances against larger opponents, even though he may be at a slight size and power disadvantage.
Not to mention how he’s just coming off a successful defence of his lightweight title, while claiming a first-round submission victory over Renato Moicano in January 2025. Always known as Islam Makhachev UFC lightweight champion, he’s now moving up as a potential UFC welterweight champion.
Related Article: Islam Makhachev Diet Plan and Workout Routine: The Training Secrets of the UFC PFP King
Jack Della Maddalena: Style, Strengths, & Record
On the other hand, we have the Jack Della Maddalena record of 18-2. This incredible UFC welterweight champion has won 18 straight fights; his most recent loss occurred in 2016. In May 2025, he defeated Belal Muhammad via unanimous decision in his most recent bout.
What could happen in Jack Della Maddalena’s next fight? Well, he has a whole bunch of advantages in the fight – especially since he has the size advantage. His speed and slick movements can also earn him victory, even more so if he pairs it with his signature sharp counters and punishing body shots.
It’s no wonder the Jack Della Maddalena UFC rise was the talk of the town. However, he will definitely have a challenging fight. Being put against a world-class grappler will definitely be a struggle.
Fight Predictions: Who Has the Edge?
Let’s get down to the UFC 322 predictions! When it comes to the UFC 322 fight card analysis, we have a few thoughts on what may or may not transpire between these two beasts in this welterweight fight.
But they aren’t only guesses! One fighter may have an advantage over another based on their unique fighting style. It’s genuinely a nail-biting Islam Makhachev vs Jack Della Maddalena fight! Let’s get into the UFC 322 breakdown and preview:
Attribute | Islam Makhachev | Jack Della Maddalena | Edge |
Striking | Technical but conservative; relies on counters and kicks | Elite boxing, sharp combinations, KO power | JDM |
Striking Defense | Good guard, evasive footwork | Slips + rolls well but gets hit in exchanges | Makhachev |
Power | Respectable but not a one-shot KO threat | High KO potential; excellent placement | JDM |
Grappling | World-class Sambo, chain wrestling, elite top control | Improving, but untested against elite wrestlers | Makhachev |
Takedown Defense | Rarely tested; usually the aggressor | Decent but unproven at Makhachev’s level | Makhachev |
Ground Game | Dominant submissions + positional control | Limited data; strong instincts | Makhachev |
Cardio | Elite 5-round championship cardio | Solid, but not tested in long wrestling scrambles | Makhachev |
Speed | Fast level changes & timing | Fast hands, clean shot selection | Even |
Fight IQ | Extremely high – adjusts mid-fight with ease | Rapidly improving, great instincts | Makhachev |
Durability | Proven chin, stays composed under pressure | Good chin but hittable at times | Makhachev |
Finishing Ability | Submissions, ground dominance | Knockouts, body-shot finishes | Even (Different strengths) |
