Makhachev Dominates Della Maddalena: New Welterweight Champion in UFC

Islam Makhachev fulfilled his goal of becoming a champion in two divisions, after dominating Jack Della Maddalena for five rounds. Makhachev claimed the welterweight championship by unanimous decision at UFC 322, held at Madison Square Garden in New York. 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, adding his sixteenth consecutive victory. In addition, he continued his impressive undefeated streak of a decade, accumulating 19 minutes and 10 seconds of control time against Della Maddalena.

This is the dream. I have fought for this all my life. I worked hard for this moment.

Islam Makhachev

Makhachev delivered a suffocating performance, combining calf kicks and head strikes with his acclaimed grappling to stifle Della Maddalena, who entered the fight with a frown. As the rounds progressed, that frown transformed into an expression of defeat. 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 counter Makhachev, who secured every takedown he attempted and kept the Australian fighter’s back glued to the canvas for long periods. Although Makhachev was the favorite, there was some concern about Della Maddalena’s size and boxing. These concerns quickly dissipated, as Makhachev neutralized Della Maddalena’s offense with an initial takedown. My life has changed. I didn’t have to cut weight. I can do what I want. He made tonight easy. Indeed, Makhachev controlled every aspect of the fight, outstriking Della Maddalena 123-32, thanks to his effective calf kicks that hindered the champion’s performance. Makhachev’s superior control was overwhelming for Della Maddalena, who tried, unsuccessfully, to get up and avoid being caught in a submission. Della Maddalena seemed to resign himself to defeat in the third round, but refused to be finished by Makhachev. Even so, Makhachev maintained control.

This was my plan, and it’s no secret. All my opponents know it, but nobody can stop it.

Islam Makhachev

After establishing himself as one of the best lightweights in UFC history, Makhachev will begin a new stage in the welterweight division, where very dynamic fighters compete. Previously, Carlos Prates and Michael Morales managed to finish their fights, which positions them as possible title contenders.

The fight everyone is waiting for is the match between Makhachev and the UFC lightweight champion, Ilia Topuria. Topuria, after Makhachev’s victory, expressed his confidence in being able to defeat one of the best fighters in the world. You are the most boring in this game. Every day I am more sure that I am going to put you to sleep. Although Makhachev did not request a fight with Topuria after his victory, he did express his desire for where he wants to fight in his next event.

Open the White House. I’m coming for it.

Islam Makhachev