Maddalena claims Makhachkov is not a match for him, referencing Makhachkov's previous encounter with "The Wolf"
Jack Della Maddalena, the reigning UFC welterweight champion, is gearing up for his first title defence against Islam Makhachev, who is moving up from the lightweight division. The details of the highly-anticipated fight, including the exact date and location, have yet to be disclosed.
Della Maddalena, who has a reputation for strong takedown defence and effective striking at 170-pounds, views the size difference as an advantage for him. Makhachev, the former lightweight champion, is stepping up in weight but is known for his awkward and unique striking, as well as his formidable wrestling and takedown game.
Although there is not a significant height difference between the two fighters, Della Maddalena has referred to Makhachev as "too little" for the welterweight division. However, both fighters are reported to be similar in height and build, which raises questions about how the size difference will impact the contest.
Dustin Poirier's assessment highlights the pivotal nature of the size and style matchup. If Makhachev is able to secure takedowns, his superior wrestling should lead to victory. On the other hand, if Della Maddalena can keep the fight standing, he might wear Makhachev down with his striking and pose problems with his size-based boxing advantage.
Della Maddalena is confident that he can reach Makhachev in the fight and believes he will have an advantage in strength and power due to the size difference. He sees the match as an opportunity to avenge a loss against a previous opponent, although the specific opponent was not named in his comments.
Makhachev has previously beaten Della Maddalena twice, including a knockout. The intended fight for Makhachev is expected to take place in the second half of this year, but the exact date and location remain undisclosed.
Della Maddalena made his comments about the upcoming fight at an Eternal MMA event, and he did not address any questions about his plans after retiring from UFC, Conor McGregor's appeal, or Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.'s arrest and deportation from the US.
In summary, while Della Maddalena expects the size difference to favour him, the actual difference in height is not large. The outcome of the fight is more likely to hinge on whether Makhachev's wrestling and awkward striking can overcome Della Maddalena's takedown defence and size-based boxing advantage. The fight promises to be a thrilling spectacle in the welterweight division.
Bookmakers may have different odds for the sports event between Jack Della Maddalena and Islam Makhachev, given the upcoming mixed-martial-arts contest between the welterweight and former lightweight champions. The fight's success could possibly hinge on Makhachev's ability to counter Della Maddalena's strong takedown defense and effective striking, despite the size difference being minimal.
