“Islam Will Take Down Jack with a Standing Move!” – Shocking Statement from Islam Makhachev’s Coach

The build-up to a potential showdown between Islam Makhachev and Jack Della Maddalena just got a dramatic twist. In a jaw-dropping revelation, Makhachev’s coach has boldly claimed that the UFC lightweight champion could take down Jack with a standing move, suggesting a level of dominance that many fans find hard to believe — or completely thrilling.

This statement has set the MMA world ablaze, adding even more fire to a rivalry that’s gaining traction ahead of a possible clash in late 2025.

Islam Makhachev vs. Jack Della Maddalena – A Collision Course

Jack Della Maddalena has been on a meteoric rise in the UFC welterweight division, establishing himself as one of the slickest strikers in the game. His boxing is precise, his pressure relentless, and his composure almost eerie. But if reports are accurate, Jack is being considered for a superfight with Islam Makhachev — a fighter widely regarded as the pound-for-pound king thanks to his well-rounded dominance.

And while the matchup hasn’t been officially booked, both camps seem ready to start the mental warfare.

Enter Islam’s coach.

The Bold Prediction: “Islam Can Take Him Down — While Standing!”

In a recent interview with Russian MMA media, Makhachev’s coach, widely assumed to be the legendary Javier Mendez, made a confident and unexpected statement:

“People think Jack’s boxing makes him untouchable on the feet. That’s not true. Islam will take him down — while standing. He doesn’t need a leg or a clinch. He’ll use positioning, timing, and Jack will go flying.”

While Mendez didn’t elaborate on the specific technique, the implication is clear: Islam is levels above when it comes to leverage and control, even against top-tier strikers like Jack.

It’s the kind of statement that can’t be ignored — and that could easily be taken as a shot at Jack’s entire fighting style.

What Does He Mean by a “Standing” Takedown?

In MMA terms, a standing takedown usually refers to a throw or trip executed without first dropping levels — think hip tosses, body-lock lifts, or judo-style sweeps. It’s a rare but brutal art, especially when executed against elite strikers who like to stay upright.

Makhachev, known for his Dagestani wrestling pedigree, has used a variety of takedown entries in his career. But this kind of claim suggests he won’t even need to change levels to drag Jack into his world — the grappling abyss where Islam thrives.

Is This Psychological Warfare?

This quote may not just be a technical breakdown — it could be a calculated strike to get inside Jack’s head. The Australian welterweight has built a reputation as a cool, cerebral fighter, but comments like these could stoke the fire for a more emotional response.

More importantly, it sets a narrative of dominance before a punch has even been thrown. By stating Islam can control the fight from the feet, Makhachev’s camp is challenging Jack’s entire identity as a striker.

It’s a classic Khabib-era tactic — project overwhelming confidence and let the opponent second-guess their strengths.

Jack Della Maddalena’s Camp Hasn’t Responded — Yet

At the time of writing, Jack Della Maddalena and his coaches have remained silent on the comment — but knowing Jack, a sharp and calculated clapback might be incoming.

What’s clear is that the Australian fan-favorite isn’t the type to back down from verbal sparring. If this fight is booked — say, at UFC 318 or UFC 320 — expect press conferences filled with icy stares and tension so thick you could slice it.

A Style Clash the UFC Needs

If the fight becomes reality, it’s one of the most intriguing style clashes of the modern era:

• Makhachev, the patient, calculated grappler with elite-level jiu-jitsu, wrestling, and ever-improving striking.

• Della Maddalena, the assassin-like striker who picks opponents apart with sniper accuracy and fluid combinations.

The question is: Can Jack keep it standing long enough to land? Or will Islam’s wrestling — standing or not — dictate everything?

The Fans React: “Is This Real?”

The MMA community has been split on the coach’s comment. Some fans think it’s bluff and hype, while others point to Islam’s elite control of distance, trips, and body locks as proof he could pull it off.

On social media, the reactions have ranged from disbelief to excitement:

• “A standing takedown? That’s humiliating if true.”

• “Islam’s gonna walk Jack down and dump him like it’s nothing. Just watch.”

• “Jack will make him pay if he tries that circus act.”

• “This is what MMA needs — confidence, drama, and two elite killers going at it.”

What Happens Next?

The UFC has yet to confirm if this bout is happening — but the momentum is undeniable. Islam Makhachev is rumored to want a welterweight challenge by the end of 2025, and Jack Della Maddalena has made it clear: he’s ready for the top.

If signed, it’s not just a title fight — it’s a clash of ideologies. Striking vs grappling. Calculated chaos vs relentless control.

And now, thanks to one bold statement, it’s personal.

Final Thoughts: Did Islam’s Camp Just Awaken Jack’s Fury?

One sentence might have just changed the energy surrounding this fight. By declaring that Islam will take Jack down “while standing,” the Makhachev camp has turned a technical discussion into a challenge to Jack Della Maddalena’s fighting soul.

It’s not just about who’s better — it’s about who imposes their identity.

Will Islam float Jack in the air like he claims? Or will Jack punch a hole through the myth?

Either way, if this fight gets signed, it’s going to be one for the ages.