UFC 322: Clash of the Titans in the Heart of New York – Maddalena vs. Makhachev

For Islam Makhachev, this fight is a challenge to himself and a pursuit of legacy. Having vacated his lightweight title after four successful defenses, the Dagestani fighter moved up to the welterweight division with one goal: to become a champion in two weight classes. Makhachev, whose record stands at 27 wins and just one loss, is riding an impressive 15-fight win streak. His dominant wrestling and refined striking under Javier Mendez and Khabib Nurmagomedov have made him one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the sport. Makhachev's decision to move up was partly driven by the champion change: he didn't want to fight his teammate Belal Muhammad, but Maddalena's victory paved the way for this superfight.

His opponent, Jack Della Maddalena, represents a new era in the welterweight division. With a record of 18-2, the Australian is on an incredible 18-fight winning streak. He won the title in a spectacular fight against Belal Muhammad at UFC 315 and is now preparing for the first and perhaps most challenging defense of his career. Maddalena is known for his elite boxing, ability to apply pressure, and deliver precise, devastating strikes. His confidence is so great that he has already stated that Makhachev's striking will be an easier challenge than Muhammad's style. This fight is a classic clash of styles, pitting Makhachev's high-level grappling against Maddalena's world-class boxing. Will the Australian be able to maintain the fight on his feet and capitalize on his striking advantage, or will the Russian fighter take the fight to his home turf and add another stoppage victory to his resume? Bookmakers see Makhachev as the favorite, but many experts, including Khabib Nurmagomedov, call Maddalena the most dangerous opponent of Islam's career.

The UFC 322 card promises to be one of the most exciting of the year. In addition to the main event, viewers can expect another championship fight: Valentina Shevchenko will defend her flyweight title against Weili Zhan, who is moving up from strawweight for a chance to make history. Former welterweight champion Leon Edwards will also return to the Octagon, facing Carlos Prates. Purchase tickets for the UFC 322 Maddalena vs. Makhachev title fight at Madison Square Garden on our website.