Islam Makhachev showcased unmatched dominance as he defeated Jack Della Maddalena to capture the UFC welterweight championship at UFC 322. The fight lacked competitiveness, with Makhachev controlling every phase and leaving fans and fighters stunned.
Makhachev Secures Historic Victory
Makhachev joins an elite group of fighters who have won UFC titles in two weight divisions. The win also marks his 16th consecutive UFC victory, tying Anderson Silva’s record. Early in the fight, both fighters exchanged light strikes, but Makhachev quickly secured a takedown and controlled the action on the ground. At one point, he threatened a choke, showcasing his grappling supremacy.
In the second round, the fighters battled in a clinch near the fence. Della Maddalena resisted, but Makhachev again took him down, asserting control with ease. Fans noted the one-sided nature of the fight as Della Maddalena struggled to respond.
Makhachev Exploits Damage and Maintains Pressure
Low kicks from Makhachev visibly affected Della Maddalena’s leg early in the third round. Della Maddalena briefly landed strikes during a clinch, but Makhachev quickly regained dominance with another takedown. He continued to threaten submissions and maintained heavy ground control.
Throughout the fourth and fifth rounds, Makhachev targeted the injured leg, combining takedowns and grappling to dictate the fight. His pressure left Della Maddalena with little chance to mount a comeback. By the final bell, Makhachev had secured a clear and decisive victory, claiming the UFC welterweight title.
Makhachev’s Championship Journey
Makhachev first became UFC lightweight champion by defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 280. He defended the title successfully against Alexander Volkanovski twice, Dustin Poirier, and Renato Moicano before vacating to move up to welterweight. His transition to a higher weight class underscored his technical versatility and strategic dominance.
Della Maddalena’s First Defeat in 18 Fights
Jack Della Maddalena suffered his first loss since his first two professional bouts, snapping an 18-fight win streak. He had earned the UFC welterweight title by defeating Belal Muhammad at UFC 315 but could not withstand Makhachev’s relentless grappling and pressure.
The bout highlighted Makhachev’s mastery and cemented his place among UFC’s all-time greats in multiple weight divisions.
