Islam Makhachev Rematch is Ultimate Goal, Says Jack Della Maddalena After Last Year’s Disappointment

Former champion Jack Della Maddalena outlines rematch plan against Islam Makhachev if he defeats Carlos Prates at UFC Perth.

Islam Makhachev Rematch is Ultimate Goal, Says Jack Della Maddalena After Last Year’s Disappointment

Jack Della Maddalena hints at Islam Makhachev rematch (via BJ Penn, Bloody Elbow)

In Short
  • Islam Makhachev became the UFC's 11th two-division champion after his victory at UFC 322.
  • Jack Della Maddalena aims for a rematch with Makhachev following his loss in the title fight.
  • Maddalena is currently focused on his upcoming fight against Carlos Prates at UFC Perth.

Islam Makhachev’s victory at UFC 322 intensified debate over who can challenge the Dagestani star in his new division, as he became the promotion’s 11th two-division champion. On that same night at Madison Square Garden, Jack Della Maddalena was left on the losing end. As he prepares to return at UFC Perth, Della Maddalena has outlined ambitions to pursue a future rematch with the new welterweight champion.

After winning the belt from Belal Muhammad at UFC 315 on short notice, Maddalena emerged as a major rising force in the welterweight division with clear long-term potential. Expectations grew further when Makhachev moved up for a second title, as many believed JDM could withstand the grappling pressure. However, he ultimately fell short, suffering a unanimous decision loss in his first title defense.

Since that setback, Maddalena has largely remained out of the spotlight, focusing on recovery and consistent training to regain peak condition. The Australian has worked on refining his approach while rebuilding momentum following the loss. As he prepares to return against rising knockout artist Carlos Prates at UFC Perth on May 2, 2026, JDM recently addressed his future plans.

My full focus is Carlos at the moment, but my ultimate goal would be to get the rematch with Makhachev. Whether that happens sooner or later, that doesn’t really bother me, but that’d be my ultimate goal, to get that rematch and challenge myself again and see if I could make the right improvements to get the win.

Jack Della Maddalena via MMA Junkie

However, Prates presents a dangerous challenge with his proven finishing ability and striking. That threat was reinforced at UFC 322, where he delivered a dominant knockout victory over former champion Leon Edwards. Prior to that, the Brazilian ‘Fighting Nerd’ secured a highlight-reel spinning elbow knockout against Geoff Neal at UFC 319, showcasing the sharp counter-striking needed to trouble Maddalena.

Meanwhile, Makhachev faces a growing list of challenges as he prepares to return from a hand injury. A stacked 170-pound division now awaits him, adding further complexity to his next move. At the same time, Ilia Topuria has continued to call for a superfight, with rumors surrounding its place at the UFC White House event. The two fighters have remained engaged in an ongoing war of words ever since.

Other welterweight contenders have also made their ambitions clear for a shot at Islam Makhachev, further crowding the title picture. Ian Garry has indicated he is waiting for his opportunity, while Michael Morales has suggested he has secured his next opponent following discussions with the UFC. This growing competition places JDM further back in line for a rematch against the Dagestani superstar.

MMA coach highlights why Islam Makhachev will struggle against Ilia Topuria

Islam Makhachev has long relied on his elite wrestling and sambo prowess as the foundation of his dominance inside the octagon. However, that strength was notably tested during his clash with Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284, which ended in a closely contested and controversial decision. The result sparked debate, with many observers believing Volkanovski had done enough to secure the victory.

Islam Makhachev calls out Ilia Topuria
Islam Makhachev calls out Ilia Topuria (via Instagram)

Ilia Topuria is known for his dominant striking, establishing himself as one of the most dangerous stand-up fighters in the UFC today. However, his Greco-Roman wrestling background is often overlooked, despite being a core part of his development from early in his career. This combination has led coach Firas Zahabi to offer a prediction on a potential matchup with Islam Makhachev in the future.

It’s harder to take down shorter guy, than a tall fighter like JDM. Look, he had a harder time taking down Volkanovski. Topuria is a much better wrestler than JDM. And he’s shorter, which means it is hard to get underneath him. I am still picking Makhachev, but I think it is the hardest matchup. The hardest matchup for Makhachev is a short guy with a lot of power.

Firas Zahabi via N3on on YouTube

Zahabi is a highly respected figure in mixed martial arts, best known as the longtime head coach of Georges St-Pierre and a key voice in technical fight analysis. His reputation is built on years of experience, strategic insight, and success at the highest level of the sport. As discussions around elite matchups continue, Zahabi’s perspective adds weight to debates involving fighters like Islam Makhachev.

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