Islam Makhachev practices deadly kicks – Ready to shatter Jack Della Maddalena’s hopes?

Islam Makhachev has never been known for flashy training videos or Instagram bravado. His reputation was built the hard way: grinding on the mat, dominating his opponents with suffocating control, and following the strict, disciplined methods of the Dagestani wrestling tradition. But now, something different is emerging. In a recent video that surfaced on his official account, Makhachev was seen delivering a thunderous high kick to a heavy bag — one that shocked fans and analysts alike.

The technique, the control, and the power behind that single strike suggested a frightening truth: Islam Makhachev is evolving again. And with Jack Della Maddalena on the horizon as his next likely challenger, the timing of this evolution couldn’t be more deadly.

Why the Kick Changes Everything

Makhachev has always been seen as the heir to Khabib Nurmagomedov. The grappling dominance, the control against the cage, and the ability to smother world-class fighters into submission made him feared. But he’s never quite been considered a striking threat in the same way.

Until now.

This latest clip, simple in setting but devastating in execution, revealed that Islam has been quietly sharpening his striking arsenal. While it’s just one kick, it symbolizes a shift in mentality. He’s not just training to dominate – he’s training to destroy.

A high kick like the one he demonstrated is not just a flashy addition. It has serious implications in a fight against a striker like Jack Della Maddalena. Jack thrives in boxing range. He loves to close the distance, rip body shots, and overwhelm opponents with combinations. But high kicks, particularly from the rear leg, are designed to disrupt rhythm and punish entries.

And in Islam’s case, a well-timed kick also sets up the takedown, making him a complete nightmare to read.

Jack Della Maddalena: The Rising Star

Jack Della Maddalena has risen fast through the UFC ranks. The Australian sensation is known for his slick boxing, high fight IQ, and ruthless finishing ability. He’s not just a power puncher — he’s a tactician who breaks down his opponents with precise pressure and relentless offense.

Many have hailed him as the next big thing. And after a series of impressive wins, he’s now being touted as the man to dethrone Makhachev. But if Islam continues evolving the way he is, that task might be even more daunting than it initially seemed.

A Classic Clash of Styles? Think Again

On paper, this looks like your typical striker vs. grappler matchup. But in reality, both men are much more than their primary skillsets. Jack has solid takedown defense and quick footwork, while Makhachev is proving he can strike at a high level.

This is no longer a case of a grappler trying to close the distance. If Makhachev has developed a high-level kicking game, particularly with the setups and timing that we see from elite strikers, then he has effectively blurred the lines between offense and defense.

It’s no longer clear where Makhachev’s attack begins and ends.

Training at AKA: The Striking Evolution

Under the guidance of coach Javier Mendez at American Kickboxing Academy (AKA), Makhachev has access to some of the best striking minds in MMA. He’s been working consistently on blending his striking with his grappling, and it’s beginning to show.

Against Alexander Volkanovski, Makhachev demonstrated that he can not only compete on the feet but also knock out one of the most durable champions in UFC history. Now, with this high kick footage emerging, it’s clear that the evolution wasn’t a one-off — it’s part of a larger transformation.

The Tactical Edge: How This Kick Could Win the Fight

Why is a high kick so significant? Because it gives Makhachev a weapon that serves multiple purposes:

1. Disrupts Jack’s rhythm: A sudden kick to the head or body forces a boxer to reset their stance.

2. Sets up level changes: Once Jack bites on the kick, Islam can shoot for a takedown.

3. Creates mental hesitation: Every time Jack tries to close distance, he must wonder: Is it a takedown or a kick?

4. Keeps the fight at range: Makhachev doesn’t have to force engagements. He can dictate pace with kicks.

In short, it’s a game-changer.

What Jack Needs to Do

For Jack Della Maddalena to win this fight, he must find ways to close the distance without getting caught. That means circling out, using feints, and countering Makhachev’s kicks with calf kicks or straight punches.

But easier said than done. No one has solved Makhachev’s timing yet. Even elite strikers like Volkanovski struggled. If Jack can’t stuff the takedown, or worse, if he becomes too cautious trying to avoid the kicks, he risks being neutralized.

He must turn the fight into a brawl. Pressure Makhachev early, back him up, and punish the body before the Dagestani champion can settle in. But any misstep, and he could find himself unconscious or trapped on the canvas.

Mind Games: Is Makhachev Sending a Message?

Let’s not ignore the psychological warfare. Fighters post training clips for a reason. This video of the high kick isn’t accidental. It’s a message: I’m ready for your best weapons, and I have more than you think.

By displaying such controlled aggression and technical precision, Makhachev is planting a seed of doubt. He’s showing the world – and Jack – that the gap is not just in the grappling department, but now in striking as well.

The Bigger Stakes: Legacy vs. Hype

This fight isn’t just about titles. It’s about legacy. Makhachev wants to prove he’s not just the best lightweight but a future all-time great. He’s carving his own path beyond Khabib’s shadow, and every weapon he adds to his arsenal is another step toward immortality.

For Jack Della Maddalena, this is the biggest opportunity of his life. Beating Makhachev would instantly elevate him into superstardom. It would validate the hype and prove that the new generation is here.

But can he handle the fire? Can he deal with the new, striking-savvy Islam Makhachev?

Final Thoughts: A Storm is Brewing

With this latest glimpse into his training, Islam Makhachev has turned the spotlight back on himself. Not with trash talk. Not with drama. But with a quiet, violent message: He is ready.

Jack Della Maddalena is a tremendous talent. But he might be walking into a fight against a man who is at the peak of his powers — a champion who is still evolving, still learning, and now, striking with the precision of a sniper.

If the kick we saw is any indication, then Islam Makhachev is not just preparing to defend his belt.

He’s preparing to make a statement.

One that could shatter not only Jack Della Maddalena’s title hopes but the belief that anyone in the division is ready to take the throne.

This is not just a title defense. It’s a warning.