UFC 322 Shock: Makhachev’s Coach Drops Bombshell Threat to Della Maddalena

The MMA world is abuzz with anticipation as UFC 322 approaches, scheduled for November 15, 2025, at the iconic Madison Square Garden. The welterweight division is set for a blockbuster clash, pitting reigning champion Jack Della Maddalena against former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. The stakes could not be higher, as Makhachev makes a bold move up in weight, seeking two-division glory after vacating his lightweight title earlier this year.

Islam Makhachev, who dominated the lightweight division with four successful title defenses, made headlines in May 2025 when he relinquished his belt. His decision to move up to welterweight is fueled by opportunity and circumstance, particularly Jack Della Maddalena’s shocking victory over Belal Muhammad at UFC 315. Makhachev, who shares a close friendship and training relationship with Muhammad, had previously avoided challenging him out of respect. With Muhammad no longer in the picture, Makhachev now sees a clear path to challenge the new welterweight champion.

Della Maddalena’s win over Muhammad showcased his elite striking, strategic acumen, and improved wrestling defense, leaving fans and analysts questioning whether Makhachev’s usual dominance in grappling could be challenged. JDM, confident in his abilities, boldly claimed that Makhachev’s stand-up game might be easier to manage than Muhammad’s, expressing belief in his own striking to carry him through the fight. “I am pretty confident I can get this one done,” Della Maddalena stated, signaling his intent to dominate the bout in striking exchanges.

However, Makhachev’s camp is not taking these statements lightly. Javier Mendez, Makhachev’s long-time coach, delivered a stern warning to Della Maddalena, emphasizing the danger of underestimating Islam’s stand-up skills.

Javier Mendez’s Bombshell Threat

In a recent interview with Submission Radio, Mendez delivered a pointed message aimed squarely at Della Maddalena. “If he’s saying that, I hope that he goes in believing that because when he gets in there with Islam, he’s going to find out a whole different story… I’ve been with this kid for 11 years, watching him just destroy everybody on the stand-up,” Mendez said, clearly expressing confidence in Makhachev’s striking evolution.

While Makhachev’s primary strengths are his grappling and submission abilities, Mendez highlighted that his pupil’s stand-up game has matured significantly. This warning serves as a reminder that fights rarely go according to expectations, particularly in matchups where striking and grappling styles clash. Even for a skilled striker like Della Maddalena, Makhachev’s technical precision and fight IQ could present unforeseen challenges inside the octagon.

Betting Odds and Early Predictions

As anticipation builds, oddsmakers have released early betting odds for UFC 322, sparking discussions among fans and analysts. Islam Makhachev is listed as the favorite at -265, while Della Maddalena comes in as the underdog at +225. Despite these numbers, Mendez expressed skepticism about early predictions.

“I don’t believe those odds. I’m sorry. It’s a lot tougher fights than what the odds are saying. You get caught up with that stuff, and that’s when it could go bad. Think about the people who were 15 or 20-1 and suddenly got their butt kicked because they underestimated their opponent,” Mendez explained. His words underline the unpredictable nature of MMA, particularly when fighters step into unfamiliar territory, as Makhachev will in the welterweight division.

The Challenge Ahead

The upcoming bout presents unique challenges for both competitors. Makhachev must adapt to a new weight class, facing a physically larger opponent in Della Maddalena, who has established himself as one of the division’s most dangerous strikers. Conversely, JDM will need to defend against Makhachev’s grappling prowess, testing his takedown defense and submission awareness like never before. Even Khabib Nurmagomedov has weighed in, noting that Della Maddalena will be a tough challenge for Makhachev.

Fans are eagerly speculating on how this showdown will unfold. Will Makhachev’s grappling mastery and refined striking earn him a place among UFC’s elite two-division champions, becoming only the 11th fighter in history to hold titles in two weight classes? Or will Della Maddalena’s striking dominance and tactical improvements finally halt Makhachev’s winning streak, solidifying his reign as welterweight champion?

UFC 322: A Fight Fans Can’t Miss

With just two months to go, UFC 322 is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about events of 2025. The clash between Jack Della Maddalena and Islam Makhachev is not just a battle for the welterweight belt but a test of legacies, strategies, and adaptability inside the octagon. Mendez’s bombshell warning has only intensified the hype, reminding fans that anything can happen once the cage doors close.

As fight week approaches, the MMA community remains on edge. Every training session, media appearance, and statement adds fuel to the fire, building anticipation for what promises to be a historic encounter. UFC 322 could very well determine whether Islam Makhachev cements himself as a multi-division legend or whether Jack Della Maddalena’s rise continues, marking a new era in the welterweight division.

In the end, the world will have to wait until November 15, 2025, at Madison Square Garden to see who walks away victorious. One thing is certain: UFC 322 is set to deliver fireworks, drama, and unforgettable MMA action.