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In a bold statement shaking up the MMA world, UFC welterweight contender Jack Della Maddalena has backed himself to defeat lightweight king and pound-for-pound great Islam Makhachev. The Australian striker’s confidence has sparked heated debates among fans and analysts about whether this potential superfight could become reality.
Jack Della Maddalena’s Meteoric UFC Rise
Since joining the UFC in 2021, Jack Della Maddalena (17-2) has been unstoppable with six consecutive finishes – five in the first round. The Perth native’s elite boxing and pressure fighting have made him one of welterweight’s most dangerous contenders.
Yet his callout of Makhachev (26-1) – the dominant Dagestani grappler who trains under Khabib Nurmagomedov – surprised many. After Makhachev’s latest title defense against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302, why does Della Maddalena fancy his chances?
Striker vs. Grappler: Della Maddalena’s Gameplan
In an exclusive with NextMinuteNews, Della Maddalena laid out his case:
“Respect to Islam – he’s a legend. But I match up well. I’m bigger, hit harder, and my hands are sharper. If I keep it standing, I can finish him.”
While Makhachev has mauled elite lightweights with his wrestling, Della Maddalena believes his improved takedown defense could be the difference:
“I’ve leveled up my grappling. He won’t just hold me down. And on the feet? Lights out.”
Would UFC Make This Fight Happen?
Realistically, this matchup faces hurdles:
– Makhachev has lightweight contenders like Arman Tsarukyan waiting
– Della Maddalena needs 1-2 more wins for a welterweight title shot
However, the UFC has booked cross-division superfights before. If both keep winning, the promotion might greenlight this striker vs. grappler spectacle.
Fan Debate: Confidence or Overreach?
MMA fans are split:
– “JDM’s hands are lethal, but Islam’s wrestling is another level”
– “Remember Strickland vs. Izzy? MMA math doesn’t always work”
What’s Next for Both Fighters?
Della Maddalena: Likely faces a top-5 welterweight (Shavkat Rakhmonov, Belal Muhammad) next, with title implications.
Makhachev: May pursue welterweight gold after defending his lightweight throne.
Final Verdict
While beating Makhachev remains MMA’s ultimate challenge, Della Maddalena’s self-belief makes this potential clash fascinating. Whether it happens or not, the Aussie’s ambition proves he’s gunning for greatness.
Could JDM shock the world against Islam? Share your thoughts below!
— NextMinuteNews, delivering cutting-edge UFC analysis.
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