Khabib drops the “schedule bomb” for Makhachev vs. Maddalena.

Islam Makhachev, one of the most dominant forces in modern MMA, is officially on a new mission—this time, in a new weight class. After vacating his lightweight belt earlier this year, the former 155-pound king is now targeting the welterweight title, and his opponent looks set: Jack Della Maddalena, the Australian breakout star who stunned the MMA world by capturing gold at UFC 315. And now, thanks to a recent reveal from none other than Khabib Nurmagomedov, fans are buzzing about a potential blockbuster title showdown at Madison Square Garden later this year.

In a subtle but unmistakable announcement, Khabib hinted during a Q&A session in New York that Makhachev already has a verbal deal with the UFC to fight in November at the iconic MSG, marking a seismic shift in the welterweight division and laying the groundwork for one of the most anticipated matchups of the year.

Della Maddalena’s Meteoric Rise

Jack Della Maddalena, at just 28, has carved out an explosive path to the top of the welterweight division. With his smooth boxing, brutal body shots, and unwavering composure under pressure, the Perth native clinched the UFC welterweight title at UFC 315, defeating the gritty and experienced Belal Muhammad. The victory not only solidified his place among the UFC elite but also set the stage for what may become a defining title reign.

Della Maddalena’s style—aggressive, technical, and striking-heavy—has earned him comparisons to classic brawlers of MMA lore, but with a modern polish. His finishing instinct and ability to weather early adversity make him a compelling champion and a serious threat to anyone daring enough to challenge him. That said, his first title defense may be his toughest yet.

Makhachev’s Leap into Welterweight

With four successful title defenses at lightweight, including two against former featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski, Makhachev has done what few champions have managed: he established himself as a long-reigning, pound-for-pound elite fighter. But now, seeking new challenges and higher accolades, the Russian fighter is leaving behind the 155-pound division to chase greatness at 170 pounds.

The move to welterweight is both ambitious and strategic. Makhachev, known for his suffocating wrestling, elite grappling, and evolving striking game, has long hinted at testing himself in multiple divisions. His mentor and coach Khabib, who retired undefeated, has always pushed Makhachev to go further—this matchup could be his shot at becoming a two-division champion, something even Khabib never attempted.

But the welterweight waters are deep. Can Makhachev’s wrestling dominate a heavier, more powerful opponent like Della Maddalena? That question looms large as fans speculate on how the stylistic chess match will unfold.

Khabib’s Hint Sets the MMA World Ablaze

In his Q&A session, Khabib didn’t mince words, stating: “This is his deal with the UFC. I don’t deal with the UFC. This is his problem. But we have [a] deal with them where he’s gonna fight at Madison Square Garden, and they said yes.”

That single line—“they said yes”—was enough to ignite online forums, podcasts, and MMA Twitter. Though the UFC has yet to officially confirm the bout, the timing lines up perfectly with the promotion’s traditional November return to MSG, one of the most iconic venues in combat sports.

What This Means for the UFC Landscape

If finalized, this fight has the potential to reshape the UFC’s pound-for-pound hierarchy. Della Maddalena, defending his title for the first time, is taking on a man who dominated the lightweight division and defeated one of the sport’s greatest in Volkanovski—twice. On the other side, Makhachev is attempting what few have done successfully: jump divisions and claim a second world title without a tune-up fight.

It’s a gamble for both fighters. For Della Maddalena, it’s the challenge of neutralizing the wrestling of a smaller, faster, and more experienced champion. For Makhachev, it’s the question of whether his elite skills translate against larger, more powerful athletes.

A win for either man cements their legacy. For Della Maddalena, defeating Makhachev would validate his title run and quiet any critics who label him as a “new champ without top-tier defenses.” For Makhachev, victory means adding another belt to his collection and stepping into rarefied air—joining names like Daniel Cormier, Amanda Nunes, and Conor McGregor as UFC champions across two weight classes.

Madison Square Garden: The Perfect Stage

There’s no venue quite like Madison Square Garden. From historic boxing clashes to UFC icons like McGregor’s double-champ moment, MSG has been the proving ground for all-time greats. A clash between Della Maddalena and Makhachev would add another chapter to its storied combat sports history.

November at MSG would also mean peak UFC promotional power. The promotion often stacks its end-of-year cards, and if this title fight headlines, expect a full supporting cast of ranked contenders, fan favorites, and perhaps even a co-main event with title implications.

What’s Next for the Fighters?

While nothing is official, both fighters appear to be gearing up. Makhachev has been training in Dagestan and Southern California, sharpening his already dangerous game under the close watch of Khabib and the AKA team. Della Maddalena, meanwhile, has reportedly returned to camp in Perth, where his coach has promised “a new level” of performance.

Della Maddalena’s team is confident they can stifle Makhachev’s wrestling and force him into a striking war—something no lightweight has managed to do for more than a few moments. However, Makhachev’s team believes his strength, experience, and fight IQ will prove insurmountable, even against a naturally larger opponent.

Legacy on the Line

This isn’t just a title fight—it’s a legacy fight. A win here for either man could be the defining moment of their career.

For Makhachev, it’s the chance to rise above even Khabib’s shadow and write his own legend across two divisions.

For Della Maddalena, it’s the opportunity to dethrone one of MMA’s most dominant champions and begin a new era in the welterweight division.

The fans, the fighters, and the UFC all seem to be pointing toward one epic night in November at Madison Square Garden. And now, thanks to Khabib’s “schedule bomb,” the pieces are falling into place. The only question left: who will walk out with the gold?