Islam Makhachev is preparing for a welterweight title bout against Jack Della Maddalena, marking Della Maddalena’s first title defense since his victory over Belal Muhammad. The fight, which has generated significant anticipation, will take place in a major arena in the United States, ruling out Abu Dhabi as the location.
Makhachev most recently competed in January, securing a dominant submission over Renato Moicano and setting a UFC record for the most consecutive successful lightweight title defenses. His swift victory allowed him to recover quickly and stay fight-ready. Meanwhile, Della Maddalena captured the welterweight championship earlier this year and looks to defend his title against Makhachev’s challenge.
Makhachev’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, revealed the fight’s intended location during a discussion on the Pound 4 Pound podcast with Kamaru Usman and Henry Cejudo. Abdelaziz emphasized that the event will be held in one of the largest arenas globally, heightening its significance for fans.
It’s not gonna be in Abu Dhabi. [Makhachev] is not gonna be in Abu Dhabi… I can tell you, it will take place in the [United States],
Abdelaziz said during his appearance on Pound 4 Pound.
In a big arena. One of the biggest arenas on the planet.
—Ali Abdelaziz, Manager
Looking at the UFC’s future pay-per-view events, Madison Square Garden in November fits Abdelaziz’s description well. This historic venue has hosted numerous iconic fights and may serve as the ideal setting for this welterweight title showdown.
Jack Della Maddalena’s Determination for Redemption
Jack Della Maddalena enters this fight motivated by a personal desire to avenge his friend Alexander Volkanovski, who was twice defeated by Islam Makhachev. Volkanovski lost first by unanimous decision, followed by a knockout in their rematch, fueling Della Maddalena’s drive to claim a decisive victory.
In interviews, Della Maddalena has expressed enthusiasm about defending his welterweight belt against the Dagestani and confidently predicts a strong performance. He views this bout not only as a title defense but also as a chance to settle scores for Volkanovski’s losses.
It’s a dream first title defense. Pound-for-pound No.1. Get him back for [Volkanovski]. We saw what ‘Volk’ did to him. I’m gonna get him. He’s too little.
—Jack Della Maddalena, Welterweight Champion
The Complexity Behind Makhachev’s Move to Welterweight
Ali Abdelaziz also clarified that Islam Makhachev’s transition to welterweight was not guaranteed from the start. The move became more plausible only after former welterweight champion Belal Muhammad lost the title, opening the division for Makhachev’s challenge.
Initially, Makhachev and Muhammad had an agreement to avoid facing each other, which kept the Dagestani focused on lightweight. During this period, speculation grew around a possible lightweight title contest between Makhachev and Ilia Topuria, who had exchanged words with Makhachev on social media.
After Muhammad’s title loss, Makhachev shifted plans, opting to move up for his next fight. Abdelaziz confirmed that had Muhammad retained the belt, Makhachev’s subsequent fight would have been against Topuria instead.
If Belal had won [against Della Maddalena], Islam would’ve fought Ilia,
Abdelaziz said when explaining the change in plans.
That was the plan. He would have fought 100%. Like, a lot of people saying all this stuff, he would’ve fought Ilia.
—Ali Abdelaziz, Manager
Anticipated Impact and Next Steps
This welterweight title fight between Islam Makhachev and Jack Della Maddalena is shaping up as a pivotal moment for both fighters and the UFC welterweight division. Makhachev’s attempt to become a two-division champion will be tested against Della Maddalena’s resolve to defend his title and avenge his friend’s losses.
The confirmed U.S. venue, likely Madison Square Garden, signals the UFC’s intent to stage a high-profile showdown that will attract global attention. Fans can expect a highly competitive bout that will influence the future landscape of the welterweight class.
As both athletes prepare for this major event, the fight’s outcome could set new legacies and shape title dynamics for years to come.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What rank is Jack Della Maddalena in UFC?
A. He fights in the Welterweight class in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and holds the title of UFC Welterweight Champion. As of July 1, 2025, he ranks number 8 on the UFC men’s pound-for-pound list.