Jack Della Maddalena Reveals Main Reason Islam Makhachev Will Beat Ilia Topuria

Former welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena vouches for the superfight between Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria.

Jack Della Maddalena Reveals Main Reason Islam Makhachev Will Beat Ilia Topuria

Jack Della Maddalena believes Islam Makhachev can beat Ilia Topuria (via MMA Fighting)

🔍 Explore this post with:

ChatGPTPerplexityGrok AIGoogle AI

Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria have followed parallel paths in the UFC, rising through divisions to become double champions. Both dominated a lower weight class before moving up to secure a second title, placing them in rare company. A matchup between the two has been discussed for some time, as their careers peaked at the same time. Jack Della Maddalena recently analyzed how such a fight could unfold.

Topuria moved up from featherweight, aiming for a lightweight title fight with Makhachev, but the matchup never aligned. However, the Dagestani star had already shifted to the welterweight division in pursuit of two-division championship success. With that fight unavailable, Topuria stayed at 155 pounds and faced former champ Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, winning by knockout to claim the lightweight title.

Maddalena faced Makhachev at UFC 322, hoping to rely on his striking over five rounds. Instead, Makhachev applied constant pressure and control throughout the contest. The fight ended in a dominant unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring it 50-45. That performance likely shaped Maddalena’s view of a potential matchup between the Dagestani protege and ‘El Matador.’

I think Islam [will win]. Ilia is good, but I just reckon the size would be a lot.Yeah, he looked big. But then again, Ilia is a heavy puncher if he can keep it on the feet and land punches, it’d be a good fight. It needs to happen.

Jack Della Maddalena via Kick Stream

The Maddalena fight drew criticism from Topuria, who took issue with Makhachev’s style and overall approach. He argued that Makhachev’s heavy reliance on Dagestani wrestling and control led to low-action fights and limited finishes. Topuria also questioned Maddalena’s competitiveness in the bout. Those remarks further heightened tension in the ongoing discussion of their rivalry.

The Georgian-Spanish star has also expressed interest in moving up to 170 pounds to pursue three-division championship status. Such a move would place him against significantly larger opponents at 170 pounds. JDM’s head coach, Ben Vickers, has cautioned Topuria about the size disparity and physical risks involved. The warning highlighted the challenges of transitioning between three weight classes.

Ilia Topuria is expected to remain out of competition until the middle portion of 2026 due to legal reasons, delaying any immediate title activity. During that period, Islam Makhachev has remained atop a competitive welterweight division. With both fighters on different timelines, any potential matchup remains speculative. The evolving landscape keeps long-term interests converging along their paths.

Jack Della Maddalena finally speaks on the Islam Makhachev loss

Jack Della Maddalena entered UFC 322 with a clear boxing advantage, leading many to question Makhachev’s ability to match him on the feet. That edge, however, never translated during the fight. However, the Dagestani native’s constant pressure and control shut down Maddalena’s offense across five rounds. By the final round, JDM appeared visibly worn from the sustained pace and physical toll.

Islam Makhachev vs Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322
Islam Makhachev vs Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 (via MMA Fighting)

Following the loss, Maddalena remained largely out of the public eye and did not immediately address the defeat. He spent time away from competition focusing on recovery and family after the grueling title fight. That silence ended recently when he made a controversial remark regarding Makhachev’s performance at UFC 322. The statement reignited discussion around the nature of the bout.

My last fight was a bit boring. Obviously his wrestling is good. His top position is good, right? He’s good at just holding people down, pinning. He’s really good at pinning people, and I got stuck there.

Jack Della Maddalena via Kick Stream

Maddalena has indicated that a matchup with the division’s #2-ranked contender, Shavkat Rakhmonov, could be a clear path back to a title shot. A win over such a highly regarded opponent would re-establish his position among the elite at welterweight. That scenario would likely place him back in line for a rematch with Islam Makhachev. The outlook reflects JDM’s focus on reclaiming championship contention.

Also Read: