Chaos Before Showtime: The Topuria vs Oliveira Match Faces Tension Right Before UFC 317!

For Islam Makhachev, becoming a two-division UFC champion is not just a goal—it’s the next step in solidifying his legacy. After reigning over the lightweight division with dominance and precision, the Dagestani powerhouse has set his sights on the UFC welterweight title. But the man standing in his way, newly crowned champion Jack Della Maddalena, is not to be underestimated.

In fact, Makhachev has made it clear—this fight is going to be one of the hardest of his career.

“It’s going to be a hard fight. Honestly, it’s going to be,” Makhachev told MMA Junkie. “He’s good, man.”

The respect is mutual. And the tension is real.

Jack Della Maddalena Shocks the World at UFC 315

Few expected Jack Della Maddalena to dethrone Belal Muhammad so convincingly. Yet at UFC 315, the Australian welterweight sensation showcased not only elite boxing but also improved takedown defense and fight IQ.

With a record of 18-2 (8-0 UFC), Maddalena is on an incredible trajectory. His precise striking, composure under fire, and increasingly well-rounded MMA skillset have transformed him from a rising contender to a legitimate champion.

“When he began fighting in the UFC, he had problems with wrestling,” Makhachev observed. “But now he’s improved. He’s champion right now for a reason.”

The Evolution of Jack Della Maddalena

According to Makhachev, Maddalena’s evolution is no fluke. He’s been paying close attention to the Aussie’s trajectory.

“I’ve seen him training a lot with wrestlers and grapplers. That’s why he’s champion right now. He’s good everywhere,” Makhachev admitted.

What makes Jack Della Maddalena dangerous is that his improvements are silent but sharp. He’s not the loudest in the room, but inside the Octagon, he dismantles opponents with accuracy and purpose. His victory over Belal Muhammad was not just a win—it was a statement.

Belal Muhammad’s Plan Backfires, Makhachev Surprised

One of the most shocking aspects of UFC 315 wasn’t just Maddalena’s win, but Belal Muhammad’s strange game plan. Known for his grinding wrestling and pressure, Muhammad opted to engage Maddalena in a striking contest for most of the fight.

“It was crazy,” Makhachev said. “I was surprised by his fight plan. He had the option, but he didn’t use it.”

Makhachev, who trained with Muhammad numerous times, expressed confusion over Muhammad’s delayed wrestling.

“He started to wrestle in the last round, maybe,” Makhachev added. “You have to wrestle from the first round… you can make him tired.”

The observation is telling. Makhachev is not just a world-class athlete—he’s a tactical genius inside the cage. And he knows that to beat Jack Della Maddalena, you can’t give him breathing room.

Islam Makhachev’s Bold Leap into the Welterweight Division

While most fans and analysts see Makhachev as a big lightweight, his transition to welterweight has not been as seamless as expected.

“All my life, I’ve been cutting weight. Now, when I want to be big, my weight stays in the same position,” Makhachev said candidly.

Building size and strength for welterweight, Makhachev is not relying on food—he’s doing it the right way, through smart lifting and nutrition.

“I want to be with muscles. I want to train, do the right lifting program, and bring some muscles,” he said.

It’s a methodical and disciplined approach, reflecting Makhachev’s elite championship mentality. He’s not trying to just show up—he wants to be the strongest, most efficient version of himself.

Why This Fight Could Be a Five-Round War

Stylistically, this matchup is as intriguing as it gets

Jack Della Maddalena: A precision boxer with knockout power, iron composure, and improving takedown defense

Islam Makhachev: An elite grappler with world-class control, high fight IQ, and dangerous top pressure

If Maddalena can keep the fight standing, he has the tools to outbox Makhachev. But if Makhachev gets it to the mat, it could be a long night for the Aussie

The chess match will begin with positioning. Will Jack circle off the fence and keep distance? Or will Islam close it fast, clinch early, and drag the fight to deep waters?

“We will see who’s the best fighter in the world very soon,” Makhachev declared.

Legacy Is on the Line

This isn’t just about gold. For Makhachev, this is about chasing greatness

If he beats Jack Della Maddalena, he becomes a two-division champion, joining legends like Georges St-Pierre, Daniel Cormier, and Conor McGregor

But it won’t come easy

Maddalena isn’t a stepping stone—he’s the most dangerous striker Makhachev has ever faced. His timing, shot selection, and fight IQ are elite-level. And now that he’s fortified his wrestling, the matchup becomes far more competitive

“He knows everybody is going to try to take him down. And now he has good defense,” Makhachev noted.

Prediction: Will the Dagestani Wrestler Break the Aussie Sniper?

The million-dollar question: Who will dictate the pace?

If Makhachev takes early control and gets Maddalena on the mat, it could be a repeat of his domination over Oliveira or Volkanovski. But if Maddalena stuffs takedowns and keeps the fight in striking range, we may be looking at a huge upset—or the start of a new era

Makhachev is wise to respect this threat

“He’s good, man. He’s improved. That’s why he’s champion.”

This isn’t just talk. It’s a clear signal that Islam Makhachev is approaching UFC 319 with full focus. And when Makhachev respects you—you know you’re doing something right.

Final Thoughts: The Most Underrated Superfight of 2025?

The buzz around UFC 319 is growing, and for good reason. The matchup between Islam Makhachev vs Jack Della Maddalena is more than a championship bout—it’s a test of legacy, evolution, and the ever-changing power dynamics in the UFC

In the past, a fighter like Maddalena would be seen as a striker who couldn’t survive a Dagestani-style ground game. But not anymore

Maddalena’s improvements have forced even the most elite fighters to take notice—and that includes Makhachev

“We’ll see who’s the best very soon,” Islam concluded. “But I’m ready for war.”

And so are we.