Full Breakdown
Islam Makhachev Claims Welterweight Title at UFC 322
11/20/2025, 12:32:49 AM
Makhachev's Dominant Victory
Islam Makhachev captured the UFC welterweight title at UFC 322, defeating Jack Della Maddalena by unanimous decision with all judges scoring the bout 50-45. This victory, which took place at Madison Square Garden in New York, marked Makhachev's transition from lightweight champion to becoming the 11th fighter in UFC history to hold titles in two different weight classes. Makhachev's performance was characterized by his grappling and wrestling skills, allowing him to control the fight for over 19 minutes, effectively neutralizing Della Maddalena's striking capabilities.
Background and Context
Makhachev previously vacated his lightweight title to pursue welterweight gold, a decision that culminated in his successful title fight against Della Maddalena. The Australian fighter had claimed the welterweight championship by defeating Belal Muhammad at UFC 315 in May 2025. Makhachev's win at UFC 322 not only extended his winning streak to 16 fights, tying him with Anderson Silva for the longest streak in UFC history, but also reinstated him at the top of the UFC's pound-for-pound rankings.
Key Figures and Reactions
Jack Della Maddalena's coach, Ben Vickers, expressed pride in his fighter despite the loss, emphasizing that this defeat is "the beginning not the end" for Della Maddalena. Former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman noted Della Maddalena's struggle during the fight, highlighting the moment he realized he was being dominated. Usman remarked, “There’s that face while he’s trying to—you see that face. … There’s that face of, ‘I’m trying to fight, but this dude can’t freaking let me.’”
Criticism and Opposition
In the aftermath of the fight, Della Maddalena's team faced backlash for pre-fight comments made by his grappling coach, Craig Jones, who disparaged combat sambo. Russian MMA legend Fedor Emelianenko suggested that Jones should apologize for his remarks, stating that Makhachev's victory served as a lesson about the effectiveness of sambo in MMA.
What's Next for Makhachev and Della Maddalena
Looking ahead, Makhachev has expressed interest in facing Kamaru Usman for his first title defense, citing Usman's experience and skill set as a compelling matchup. Meanwhile, Della Maddalena is expected to regroup and aim for a return to title contention, with potential opponents including Shavkat Rakhmonov and Ian Machado Garry, depending on the outcomes of their upcoming fights.
Conclusion
Islam Makhachev's victory at UFC 322 not only solidifies his status as a two-division champion but also reshapes the welterweight landscape, introducing new contenders eager to challenge for the title. As the division evolves, both Makhachev and Della Maddalena will look to navigate their respective paths in the competitive world of mixed martial arts.
