All the intrigue of UFC 322: Maddalena and Makhachev will clash in a battle for legacy

For Islam Makhachev, the upcoming fight will be not only a test but also a chance to cement his legacy. Having vacated his lightweight title after four successful defenses, the Dagestani athlete moved up to the welterweight division with the goal of capturing championships in two weight classes. With an impressive record of 27 wins and only one loss, Makhachev is on a 15-fight winning streak. His dominant wrestling technique and refined striking, honed under the tutelage of Javier Mendez and Khabib Nurmagomedov, have made him one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the sport. The move up a weight class was partially necessitated by a champion change: he avoided a fight with his fellow champion Belal Muhammad, but a victory over Jack Della Maddalena paved the way for this superfight.

Jack Della Maddalena represents a new wave in the welterweight division. With a record of 18-2, the Australian is riding an impressive 18-fight win streak. Having won the title in a spectacular fight against Belal Muhammad at UFC 315, he is preparing for his first title defense, which promises to be one of the most challenging of his career. Maddalena is renowned for his elite boxing, ability to apply pressure, and accurate striking. He is so confident that he has stated that Makhachev's striking style will be easier for him than Muhammad's approach.

This fight is a classic clash of styles: Makhachev's supreme grappling against Maddalena's world-class boxing. Will the Australian be able to maintain the fight on his feet and utilize his striking power? Or will the Russian athlete take the fight to his home turf and add another stoppage victory to his resume? Bookmakers have Makhachev as the favorite, but many experts, including Khabib Nurmagomedov, consider Maddalena the most dangerous opponent for Islam.

The UFC 322 card promises to be one of the most exciting events of the year. In addition to the main event, viewers will be treated to another title fight: Valentina Shevchenko will defend her flyweight belt against Weili Zhan, who is moving up from strawweight for a historic opportunity. Former welterweight champion Leon Edwards will also return for a fight against Carlos Prates. Tickets for the UFC 322 title fight between Maddalena and Makhachev at Madison Square Garden are available for purchase on our website.