Jack Della Maddalena is focused on one fighter as he looks toward reclaiming a chance to fight Islam Makhachev again. The Australian contender believes that a victory over Shavkat Rakhmonov is the key to reopening the door to a welterweight title rematch.
Bouncing Back After First UFC Loss
Della Maddalena, whose UFC record now stands at 8-1 with 18 wins overall, experienced his first UFC defeat at the hands of Makhachev at UFC 322. That match was his first attempt to defend the welterweight title he earned by beating Belal Muhammad at UFC 315. Despite the setback, he remains determined to regain his standing in the division.
Targeting Shavkat Rakhmonov
In a recent live stream with N3on, Della Maddalena emphasized his strategy for climbing back into title contention.
“Yeah, that would be the dream,” he said. “That’s why I want to fight Shavkat, ’cause beating someone like that, you get thrown right back in there.”
Rakhmonov, who has yet to lose in his professional MMA career, last fought at UFC 310 against Ian Machado Garry, winning by unanimous decision despite entering the bout with a torn meniscus and partial ACL injury. He has been training and rehabilitating, making a matchup with Della Maddalena a realistic next step.
Reflecting on his first loss to Makhachev, Della Maddalena noted the challenges posed by the champion’s grappling style.
“Obviously, his wrestling is good,” he said. “His top position is good. He’s good at just holding people down, pinning. He’s really good at pinning people, and I got stuck there.”
Other Potential Comeback Paths
While a showdown with Rakhmonov is his primary objective, Della Maddalena also identified other possible matchups that could help him regain momentum in the welterweight rankings.
“Maybe like Michael Morales or Carlos Prates, one of those guys,” he added.
With Rakhmonov’s return to training and Della Maddalena’s determination, the Australian contender hopes a win over the unbeaten fighter will propel him into another high-stakes contest with Islam Makhachev, offering him a shot at redemption and the welterweight championship.
