The welterweight division is set for a blockbuster main event as Jack Della Maddalena defends his title for the first time against former lightweight king Islam Makhachev at UFC 322, Madison Square Garden on November 16, 2025.

Ahead of this historic matchup, fighters and analysts across the MMA world have shared their takes — and the predictions are as split as ever. From respect for Islam’s wrestling dominance to admiration for Jack’s striking precision, here’s how the pros see the fight playing out.

Grappling vs. Boxing

This fight pits two of the sport’s most complete athletes against each other — Makhachev’s elite grappling vs Della Maddalena’s crisp boxing. Some see the Australian champion’s momentum and size as the deciding factor, while others believe Makhachev’s experience and ground control will make the difference.

Fighters Picking Jack Della Maddalena

Michael Bisping praised Della Maddalena’s form, saying, “It wouldn’t surprise me if Jack Della Maddalena is still the champion at the end of the day… Against Belal Muhammad that was a masterful performance.

Beneil Dariush shared similar thoughts: “I’m leaning toward JDM. The size will make the difference… cardio-wise, JDM has great stamina.”

Even Dan Hooker, usually known for his brutal honesty, acknowledged Jack’s potential: “He’s a legitimate welterweight problem… I lean toward Maddalena beating Makhachev.”

Paddy Pimblett was more direct: “I hope JDM absolutely punches his little head in… If he keeps it on the feet, he’ll batter him.”

Overall, the pro-JDM camp believes his striking, youth, and composure will overcome Makhachev’s wrestling — especially after his dominant win over Belal Muhammad.

Fighters Backing Islam Makhachev

Robert Whittaker took a balanced approach but leaned toward Islam, saying, “Jack has nothing to lose, but Islam’s got everything to lose.”

Belal Muhammad predicted a ground finish: “Islam can finish JDM on the ground… those Dagestani-style wrestlers are different.”

Khamzat Chimaev echoed the sentiment: “Islam’s gonna use more of his wrestling in this fight.”

Jorge Masvidal added, “Once he hits the mat, nobody has better ground control or submissions.”

And of course, Khabib Nurmagomedov and coach Javier Mendez expressed supreme faith in Islam’s preparation and focus, emphasizing the Dagestani camp’s historic unity and attention to detail.

Khabib posts “Soon we[Islam Makhachev] will follow the historic second belt, and in the meantime, the work continues. 33 days before the historical fight in Madison Square Garden. See you guys in New York. @islam_makhachev ready to go“

Javier Mendez added “He[Jack Della Maddalena] is good. I believe we [Islam Makhachev] are going to beat him, but we are doing our homework“

The Fighters Speak for Themselves

Jack Della Maddalena on his strategy:
“I’m going to go for the finish against Islam Makhachev… taking out pound-for-pound No.1 at MSG would be the dream.”

He added, “It’s not just striking vs grappling. Islam’s an all-rounder. I just have to keep moving and never let a position settle.”

Islam Makhachev responded with calm confidence:
“He’s good, striking is good, boxing is very good… but his wrestling isn’t. I’ll show you who the best fighter in the world is.”

The exchange captures two fighters at the peak of their focus — one chasing legacy, the other defending dominance.

Mixed Opinions and the Bigger Picture

Highlight neutral or balanced takes:

Some fighters, like Kamaru Usman, focused on what the outcome means for legacy rather than the result. “If JDM defends against Islam, that solidifies him as the new generation,” Usman said. “If Islam wins, it’s pound-for-pound greatness reaffirmed.”

Even Michael Chandler and Beneil Dariush admitted how close this matchup feels, describing it as a “50-50 fight” that could define the future of two divisions.

UFC 322 -A fight for the ages

Whether it’s Makhachev’s wrestling mastery or Della Maddalena’s striking brilliance that prevails, UFC 322 is shaping up to be a fight for the ages.
What makes this main event so compelling isn’t just the clash of styles — it’s the respect, ambition, and self-belief both fighters bring to Madison Square Garden.

One thing’s certain: come November 16, the MMA world will be watching as two elite champions collide in a battle that could redefine greatness.