Makhachev Conquers Welterweight Championship at UFC 322
Islam Makhachev fulfilled his goal of becoming a two-division champion on Saturday night. In the main event of UFC 322 at Madison Square Garden in New York, Makhachev submitted Jack Della Maddalena over five rounds, securing the welterweight championship with a unanimous decision victory. The three judges awarded the victory to Makhachev with a score of 50-45. With this victory, Makhachev (28-1) tied Anderson Silva’s record in the UFC, achieving his sixteenth consecutive victory. In addition, he accumulated an impressive control time of 19 minutes and 10 seconds against Della Maddalena, adding to his remarkable undefeated streak of a decade. This is the dream. All my life I have fought for this. I worked hard for this moment. Makhachev’s performance was dominant, combining calf kicks and head strikes with his acclaimed grappling to stifle Della Maddalena. Although Della Maddalena entered the fight with a determined expression, it transformed into a look of defeat as the rounds progressed. Della Maddalena (18-3) hadn’t lost since his first two professional MMA fights in 2016. He had conquered the welterweight title by defeating Belal Muhammad in May. However, he couldn’t stand up to Makhachev, who achieved all the takedowns he attempted and kept the Australian fighter with his back glued to the canvas for long periods.Even though Makhachev was the favorite, there was some concern about Della Maddalena’s size and boxing. These concerns quickly dissipated, as Makhachev controlled Della Maddalena’s offense with a takedown and kept him on the ground.
Makhachev dominated every aspect of the fight, outstriking Della Maddalena 123-32 in strikes. Makhachev’s calf kicks hindered the champion’s movement. Makhachev’s superior control was too much for Della Maddalena, who spent much of the fight trying to get up and avoid being caught in a submission. Della Maddalena seemed resigned to defeat in the third round, but refused to be finished. Makhachev, however, managed to impose his strategy.My life has changed. I didn’t have to cut weight. I can do what I want. He made tonight easy.
Islam Makhachev
After establishing himself as one of the best lightweights in UFC history, Makhachev will begin a new stage in the welterweight division, which has dynamic fighters. On the same night, Carlos Prates and Michael Morales achieved impressive finishes, presenting themselves as potential title contenders. The most anticipated fight is the match between Makhachev and the current UFC lightweight champion, Ilia Topuria. Topuria, after Makhachev’s victory, expressed his confidence in being able to finish one of the best fighters in the world. Although Makhachev did not request a fight with Topuria immediately afterwards, he did reveal his desire for his next fight.This was my plan, and it’s no secret. All my opponents know it, but nobody can stop it.
Islam Makhachev
Open the White House. I’m coming for you.
Islam Makhachev
