Jack Della Maddalena Declares Ready: Official Time for Fight with Islam Makhachev Has Been Set

In a headline that’s shaking the MMA world, Jack Della Maddalena has officially confirmed his long-awaited showdown with Islam Makhachev, declaring himself fully prepared for what is set to be one of the most explosive bouts of the year. The official time and venue have now been locked in, fueling anticipation among fans and fighters alike.

As the clock ticks toward this high-stakes clash between two of the most formidable names in the UFC, Della Maddalena’s confidence is peaking, and the undefeated lightweight champion Islam Makhachev now finds himself facing a surging challenger who isn’t afraid to step into deep waters.

Jack Della Maddalena: “I’m Ready for the Storm”

In a press conference held in Perth, Australia, Jack Della Maddalena (17-2, 11 KOs) made a bold declaration:

“I’m ready. The time is set. The place is set. I’ve been dreaming of this moment, and I’m walking in there to shock the world.”

It’s a major announcement in the UFC, as Makhachev, the reigning lightweight champion, has been widely regarded as nearly untouchable. His dominant wrestling, elite grappling, and evolving striking have made him one of the most feared fighters in the sport today. But Della Maddalena’s fast rise through the welterweight rankings, combined with his slick boxing and unbreakable spirit, have created the kind of buzz reserved for serious title contenders.

The Fight is Official: Time, Date, and Location Confirmed

UFC President Dana White confirmed the blockbuster fight is scheduled for UFC 308, set to take place on August 17 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, with the main event walkouts expected at 10:30 PM EST.

This will mark a rare return to the legendary MSG arena for Makhachev, while Della Maddalena will be making his first main event appearance on such a historic stage. Both fighters have agreed to meet at a catchweight of 165 pounds, a move that surprised many but allows both men to optimize performance without drastic weight cuts.

“It’s the perfect weight for both of us,” Jack stated. “This isn’t about making weight; it’s about making history.”

Islam Makhachev: The Champion Who’s Always Watching

Islam Makhachev (25-1, 5 KOs, 11 submissions) has been on a rampage in the UFC, dismantling challengers with calm efficiency. After back-to-back title defenses, including a five-round war with Alexander Volkanovski and a dominant win over Dustin Poirier, Makhachev now welcomes a fresh challenger from a different division.

“He’s hungry, but he’s not ready,” Makhachev said. “Everyone thinks they are until we get in the cage. I will humble him.”

Makhachev, the protégé of UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, has always been measured in his words but devastating in action. He’s made a habit of neutralizing aggressive strikers, often taking them into deep waters and drowning them with relentless pressure and suffocating ground control.

Why Jack Della Maddalena is Different

While many fighters fear the grappling-heavy approach of Makhachev, Della Maddalena embraces the challenge. Known for his slick striking, brutal body shots, and killer instinct inside the cage, Jack brings a style that could disrupt the rhythm of the Dagestani champion.

His UFC resume speaks volumes — wins over Kevin Holland, Vicente Luque, and Sean Brady have shown his ability to adjust, counterpunch, and thrive in chaos.

“I don’t freeze in the moment,” Jack explained. “Islam’s good, but he hasn’t felt hands like mine. Once I touch him, it’s a different fight.”

Even UFC insiders are recognizing the Australian’s momentum, with analysts like Daniel Cormier and Michael Bisping acknowledging this could be Makhachev’s toughest stylistic challenge yet.

Training Camps Reflect the Stakes

Jack Della Maddalena has relocated to Thailand for the bulk of his training camp, focusing on conditioning, clinch control, and takedown defense. Working alongside elite Muay Thai practitioners and high-level grapplers, he’s preparing to keep the fight standing — where he thrives.

Makhachev, meanwhile, remains at American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) in San Jose, training under the close watch of Javier Mendez and Khabib. Reports suggest he’s focusing more than ever on striking defense and level-changing to neutralize Jack’s timing and angles.

“This is not just another fight. It’s chess. One mistake, and you’re asleep,” Jack said.

Fan Reaction and Global Buzz

The announcement has sent shockwaves across the MMA community. Twitter exploded with reactions, as fans debated the matchup’s implications for both the lightweight and welterweight divisions.

UFC fighters like Justin Gaethje, Charles Oliveira, and Leon Edwards shared their thoughts:

• “Jack’s got serious hands, but Islam is a monster on the mat. Intriguing fight,” wrote Gaethje.

• “Catchweight makes it fair. Can’t wait to see who imposes their will,” Oliveira added.

MMA fans across Australia and the Middle East have already begun purchasing travel packages and fight night gear. MSG is expected to sell out in record time for what promises to be a high-octane showdown between two of the most skilled and dangerous fighters in the UFC.

What’s at Stake: More Than a Win

While no title is officially on the line due to the catchweight, the implications are massive:

• A win for Della Maddalena would likely catapult him into a title shot — either at lightweight or welterweight.

• A win for Makhachev continues his legacy and could cement his place atop the pound-for-pound rankings.

“This fight isn’t about belts. It’s about legacy,” Della Maddalena emphasized. “It’s about proving I belong at the very top.”

“He’ll realize there are levels,” Makhachev responded coolly.

Final Word: Countdown Begins

With the official time now confirmed and both camps locked in, the countdown to Islam Makhachev vs. Jack Della Maddalena has officially begun. A collision of styles, temperaments, and legacies awaits on August 17.

One man seeks to defend his dominance. The other plans to break through and make his mark.

When the cage door closes, the only thing that matters is who’s ready to rise. And Jack Della Maddalena has made it clear — he’s ready.