It’s not Ilia Topuria – JDM is the fighter who truly makes Khabib worry about Makhachev!

Khabib Nurmagomedov, one of the greatest fighters in UFC history, has weighed in on one of MMA’s most anticipated storylines—and it’s not what fans expected. In a recent interview, the retired legend claimed that Jack Della Maddalena, not Ilia Topuria, is the toughest challenge for his protégé, Islam Makhachev.

The comment has ignited debate across the MMA world. Could “JDM” really be a more dangerous opponent than the undefeated, highlight-reel finisher Topuria?

According to Khabib: absolutely.

Khabib Nurmagomedov Speaks – And the MMA World Listens

During a Russian-language interview with Adam Zubayraev, Khabib made the surprising declaration:

“I think Maddalena is the toughest opponent in Islam’s career. Not Charles, no one else. That’s just my personal opinion.”

That statement alone was enough to stir controversy. After all, Islam Makhachev has faced—and defeated—some of the best fighters on the planet, including Charles Oliveira, whom he submitted to win the UFC lightweight title in 2022. But for Khabib, it’s not Oliveira or Topuria that worries him.

It’s Jack Della Maddalena.

Why Khabib Fears JDM More Than Ilia Topuria

Khabib didn’t hold back in breaking down the reasons behind his assessment:

“First of all, Maddalena is twice the size of Ilia. Taller, bigger, stronger legs, bigger frame. His boxing is just as good, and in grappling, he scrambles really well – if you’ve watched him.”

This statement underscores something that hardcore MMA fans already know: Jack Della Maddalena is an absolute nightmare matchup.

The 28-year-old Australian is a natural welterweight, with elite-level boxing, vicious pressure, and underrated grappling. He isn’t just big—he knows how to use every inch of his frame to deliver damage and stuff takedowns.

Jack Della Maddalena: From Early Losses to UFC Gold

Jack Della Maddalena’s MMA story is as gritty as it gets. After losing his first two professional fights in 2016, many wrote him off. But since then, he’s done the unthinkable: an 18-fight win streak, culminating in a dominant decision victory over Belal Muhammad in May to claim the UFC welterweight title.

Against Belal—a fighter known for suffocating wrestling and cardio—JDM displayed laser-sharp boxing and near-perfect takedown defense. That performance alone turned heads, but Khabib clearly saw something deeper.

“In grappling, he scrambles really well,” Khabib noted. “If I were preparing Islam for either Ilia or Maddalena, I’d be more concerned – and am more concerned – about Maddalena.”

Ilia Topuria: Brilliant, Dangerous… But Still Second?

While Ilia Topuria recently became lightweight champion by knocking out Charles Oliveira in the first round, Khabib appears less impressed by his threat level to Makhachev.

This is a bold take, considering that Topuria is undefeated, surgically precise, and has a growing reputation as one of the most terrifying finishers in the sport. Fans have been clamoring for a Topuria vs Makhachev showdown for over a year, especially after Ilia vacated the featherweight belt and declared himself ready for lightweight gold.

The UFC even teased the possibility of Topuria vs Makhachev as a pound-for-pound super fight, with both fighters ranked in the top two globally.

But Khabib insists: size matters.

And in that department, Topuria—who came up from 145 pounds—simply doesn’t compare to the larger, more physically imposing Maddalena.

Islam Makhachev’s Bold Move: Vacating Lightweight to Chase Welterweight Glory

In a dramatic shift, Makhachev vacated the lightweight title in June 2025 to pursue a second championship at welterweight. This left the 155-pound belt up for grabs, and Topuria quickly filled the void by defeating Oliveira.

While Makhachev’s decision disappointed fans who wanted to see him defend against Topuria, it has set up one of the most intriguing matchups in recent UFC history: Makhachev vs Maddalena, likely to take place before year’s end.

What Makes This Matchup So Intriguing?

Here’s why Makhachev vs. JDM has all the makings of a classic:

• Power vs Technique: JDM’s boxing is some of the cleanest in the UFC, while Islam’s striking has evolved tremendously in recent years.

• Grappling Threats: Islam is a grappling savant, trained in sambo and honed under Khabib’s guidance. But Jack’s scrambling and takedown defense are world-class.

• Physical Mismatch: Makhachev has dominated at 155 lbs, but at 170 lbs, he’ll be facing fighters who are naturally bigger and potentially stronger.

• Undefeated Pressure: JDM hasn’t lost since 2016. Makhachev hasn’t lost since 2015. Something’s got to give.

Does Khabib Have a Point? Or Is He Downplaying Topuria?

Some critics argue that Khabib is underestimating Ilia Topuria, perhaps intentionally, to keep the focus on Makhachev’s welterweight goals. After all, Topuria is a huge fan favorite, has knockout power in both hands, and a slick BJJ game that could surprise Islam.

But from a coach’s perspective, Khabib’s concern is logical. JDM matches Makhachev’s size, can strike with the best, and doesn’t fade under pressure. He’s a complete fighter in a dangerous weight class.

The Stakes: Pound-for-Pound Supremacy

No matter which fight happens first — Topuria vs Makhachev or Makhachev vs JDM — the outcome could redefine the pound-for-pound rankings.

Right now, fans are split:

• Some say Topuria is the king, thanks to his flawless record and devastating win over Oliveira.

• Others argue Makhachev is the most complete fighter alive, with more title defenses and an ironclad skill set.

• And now, a new faction believes Jack Della Maddalena is the wild card who could shake everything up.

Final Thoughts: Khabib Lights the Fuse

Khabib Nurmagomedov has spoken, and once again, the MMA world is listening.

By saying Jack Della Maddalena is the toughest test of Islam Makhachev’s career, he didn’t just give fans insight into his coaching mind — he changed the narrative. No longer is Topuria the biggest threat. Now, it’s JDM who’s seen as the monster to beat.

As Makhachev prepares for the next chapter in his already-legendary journey, fans are left asking:

Will Jack Della Maddalena be the man to stop Islam’s reign? Or will Topuria eventually catch him first?

One thing is certain: the road to greatness just got a lot more complicated.