A Shocking Knockout or a Finishing Submission? The Conclusion Is Very Near for Makhachev vs Maddalena!

The UFC 319 main event is fast approaching, and the tension is unbearable. At the center of it all are two of the most electrifying forces in modern MMA: Islam Makhachev, the lightweight champion with Dagestani steel, and Jack Della Maddalena, the ruthless Aussie striker who has bulldozed his way through the rankings.

This fight isn’t just about gold. It’s about legacy, style, and a clash of martial ideologies. And when the Octagon doors close in Las Vegas, one question will define the night:

Will it end in a shocking knockout, or a finishing submission?

Let’s dive into why this is the most unpredictable main event of the year—and how either man could deliver the devastating final blow.

Islam Makhachev: The Submission Machine Returns

Islam Makhachev (26-1) is more than just a champion—he’s an heir to the Dagestani throne, built upon the legacy of Khabib Nurmagomedov. With elite-level grappling, suffocating control, and ever-evolving striking, Makhachev has defended his belt with machine-like precision.

His most recent wins over Charles Oliveira, Alexander Volkanovski, and Justin Gaethje solidified him as not just the lightweight king, but one of the pound-for-pound best in the sport.

And now, Makhachev is coming for welterweight glory.

Against Jack Della Maddalena, though, he’s entering uncharted territory: a powerful striker with pinpoint boxing, fight IQ, and a hunger that screams danger.

🗣️ “I respect his power,” Makhachev said at media day. “But power fades when you’re on your back.”

It’s no secret that Makhachev’s path to victory lies in his world-class grappling. If he can close the distance, secure a takedown, and apply his relentless top pressure, a submission finish is very possible—especially in the later rounds.

But what if he gets caught before that?

Jack Della Maddalena: The Knockout Artist With Ice in His Veins

Jack Della Maddalena (18-2) might be the most technically gifted striker the UFC has seen since the rise of Israel Adesanya. With crisp combinations, body-head transitions, and a calmness under fire, the Australian assassin has made a habit of melting his opponents inside two rounds.

What makes Jack dangerous isn’t just his power—it’s his ability to remain cool, calculated, and deadly efficient.

🗣️ “I’m not afraid of grappling,” Della Maddalena said this week. “But he’ll be afraid of my punches.”

It’s not just talk. Jack’s fights with Shavkat Rakhmonov, Gilbert Burns, and Belal Muhammad showed his ability to handle both chaos and elite-level opposition.

Unlike most of Makhachev’s past opponents, Jack has knockout power in every shot—and knows how to use it. If Islam makes one mistake while changing levels or attempting a clinch, Jack could land a fight-ending uppercut or left hook that sends shockwaves through the sport.

Grappler vs Striker: A UFC Classic, but on Steroids

This isn’t the first time the UFC has showcased a grappler-vs-striker narrative, but this fight feels different.

Because both men aren’t just specialists—they’re evolving killers.

• Makhachev has shown crisp kicks and improved boxing, even outstriking Volkanovski.

• Della Maddalena has worked relentlessly on takedown defense and has trained with elite grapplers in preparation for this moment.

That’s what makes this so dangerous—for both men.

If Jack can stop the first two takedowns, Islam may begin to panic or overextend. On the other hand, if Islam gets the early takedown and neutralizes Jack’s rhythm, the Aussie may be in for a slow, suffocating grind.

But one thing’s for sure—this fight likely won’t go the distance.

What the Experts Are Saying

UFC legend Daniel Cormier, who trained with Makhachev, isn’t sure how this will go.

“Jack is dangerous, man. Islam has to respect that left hand. But if Islam gets on top… it might be over real fast.”

Former welterweight champ Kamaru Usman added:

“Jack’s got something special. He doesn’t waste punches, and that’s scary. If Islam gets too comfortable standing, that could be lights out.”

Meanwhile, lightweight legend Tony Ferguson stirred the pot with a cryptic tweet:

“Makhachev better be ready for a real one. Jack ain’t playing.”

Tactical Breakdown: Who Has the Edge?

Let’s look at the numbers and fight IQ.

Islam Makhachev’s Path to Victory:

• Chain wrestling to drag Jack to the mat

• Maintaining dominant top position and working toward submissions

• Avoiding prolonged exchanges on the feet

• Pushing the fight deep into rounds 4-5 where his cardio shines

Jack Della Maddalena’s Path to Victory:

• Circling away from Makhachev’s lead side

• Tearing up the body early to sap Islam’s stamina

• Using short, compact punches to counter takedown entries

• Finishing the fight within the first two rounds

Both men are masters in their respective domains, but only one will impose their style first—and survive.

Prediction: So… Knockout or Submission?

The odds are nearly split. Vegas has Makhachev as a slight favorite, but public opinion is divided.

• If it goes past Round 3, the scale tips heavily in Islam’s favor.

• If Jack lands clean early, we may witness one of the most shocking knockouts in UFC history.

Our pick? Don’t blink.

This fight will likely end before the final bell, and it will come down to who controls the pace early. Makhachev’s grappling edge gives him the higher floor, but Jack’s knockout threat gives him the higher ceiling.

Either way, the conclusion is very near. And when it comes, it will be unforgettable.

UFC 319 – LIVE August 16, 2025 – Las Vegas

Main Event:
🇷🇺 Islam Makhachev (C) vs 🇦🇺 Jack Della Maddalena
For the UFC Welterweight Championship

Get ready. Whether it’s a shocking knockout or a submission that silences the arena, this main event has the makings of a UFC classic.