Jack Della Maddalena is preparing for the biggest test of his career when he faces Islam Makhachev later this year in New York. The welterweight titleholder is set to defend his belt at UFC 322, with Makhachev chasing the chance to become a champion in two different weight classes.
The Australian knockout artist impressed the world when he captured the belt at UFC 315 by stopping Belal Muhammad. Now, he has the chance to take down the UFC’s pound-for-pound No. 1 at Madison Square Garden.
His fellow countryman and former champion Alexander Volkanovski believes Jack has all the right tools to pull off the upset.
Volkanovski Backs JDM’s Growth and Skill
“You can’t doubt him. He’s a welterweight, and you’ve got Belal, who’s a grappler-wrestler. Look how he handled that,” Volkanovski told Submission Radio of Della Maddalena. “He’s a beast on the feet. I guarantee you from that fight, his confidence in grappling and takedown defense has just gone to a whole other level.
“He’s going to be an absolute nightmare. I’m hoping to get some training in with him for this one, as well. We’ll tee something up, for sure. JDM – he’s a weapon. I know that Islam is not taking this one lightly, and he shouldn’t.”
Volkanovski has been inside the Octagon with Islam Makhachev twice, pushing him to the limit at UFC 284 before being caught in their rematch on short notice at UFC 294. That experience gives his words extra weight as he assesses the matchup.
A Dangerous Fight on Both Sides
Della Maddalena (18-2 MMA, 8-0 UFC) will make his first defense of the welterweight crown against Makhachev (27-1 MMA, 16-1 UFC) on November 15. The event promises to be one of the most anticipated champion-versus-champion clashes of the year.
Having gone five competitive rounds with Islam, Volkanovski has paid close attention to JDM’s rapid rise. He was especially impressed by how confidently Jack neutralized Belal Muhammad’s grappling while showcasing his boxing.
“JDM’s boxing and pressure that he can do, incredible,” Volkanovski said. “He can definitely get a finish. Islam’s great. Him moving up, I still think, is a nightmare for a lot of the people in the division. But I think JDM can do it.” via MMAJunkie
Volkanovski believes the combination of pressure, striking accuracy, and defensive improvements could make Jack a nightmare opponent for Makhachev, especially in the later rounds.
For Della Maddalena, the goal is clear — he wants to leave Madison Square Garden with a statement victory. The welterweight champ has spoken openly about visualizing a stoppage win, and Volkanovski doesn’t see that as unrealistic.
If Jack can defend the takedowns and keep the fight standing, his crisp boxing could create a dramatic moment against one of the most dominant champions in recent memory.
