Khabib Nurmagomedov has publicly stated that Jack Della Maddalena represents the most difficult opponent Islam Makhachev will face in his career. Makhachev is expected to move up to the welterweight division to challenge Della Maddalena for the title later this year, although the bout has not been officially scheduled yet. This upcoming fight is generating significant attention, especially after Khabib’s remarks about the challenge awaiting Makhachev.
According to Nurmagomedov, Della Maddalena’s physical attributes and skills make him a formidable adversary. Khabib emphasized that Della Maddalena is considerably larger than Ilia Topuria, who many fans also view as a tough opponent for Makhachev. He detailed,
“[Jack] is twice the size of Ilia. Taller, bigger, stronger legs, bigger frame. His boxing is just as good.”
He added,
“I’d be more concerned about Maddalena [than Ilia].”
Khabib Explains Why Jack Della Maddalena Stands Out Among Makhachev’s Potential Opponents
Expanding on his perspective, Nurmagomedov clarified that his opinion stands apart from others in the MMA world, including Charles Oliveira and fans who back other fighters. He stated,
“I think Maddalena is the toughest opponent in Islam’s career. That’s my opinion, not Charles, no one else. None of those other fighters. Not even Ilia, if that fight were to happen. That’s just my personal opinion.”
Khabib further noted Della Maddalena’s wrestling and grappling abilities, saying,
“And, in grappling, he scrambles really well if you’ve watched him. For me, if I was preparing Islam for either Ilia or Maddalena, I’d be more concerned about Maddalena (than Ilia).”
These comments underscore how Della Maddalena’s size and all-around fighting skills make him unique and potentially more challenging than any opponent Makhachev has encountered, including those renowned for their power.
Islam Makhachev Prepares for an Intense Battle Against Jack Della Maddalena
Islam Makhachev has echoed the recognition of this fight’s difficulty, signaling his respect for Della Maddalena’s capabilities. Speaking to MMA Junkie, Makhachev described the upcoming bout as
“going to be a hard fight.”
He mentioned watching Della Maddalena’s recent performances, particularly against Belal Muhammad, and acknowledged the Australian’s growth in wrestling and grappling.
He explained,
“When he began fighting in the UFC, he had problems with wrestling, but now he’s improved because I’ve seen him training a lot with wrestlers and grapplers, and that’s why he’s champion right now. He’s good everywhere. But we will see who’s the best fighter in the world very soon.”
Islam Makhachev, who holds a professional record of 27 wins and 1 loss, last secured a submission victory over Renato Moicano, demonstrating his readiness to face the next challenge. His stepping up to welterweight will mark a significant test of his skills against a larger and well-rounded champion.
Significance and Future Outlook of the Welterweight Title Clash
This anticipated fight represents a pivotal moment in Makhachev’s career, as moving to welterweight puts him against larger opponents with different styles. Khabib’s declaration of Della Maddalena as the toughest test highlights the uncertainty and intensity surrounding the matchup. Fans and analysts alike view this as a potentially defining battle that could reshape the welterweight division. The bout, expected to take place later this year, will not only offer answers about who reigns supreme but also test Makhachev’s ability to conquer a significant size and skill advantage.