The Title Defense of UFC 322: A Striker vs. A Mauler
Jack Della Maddalena is set to fight the equally successful Islam Makhachev at UFC 322. They are both of equal weight and nearly identical in height and age. The Welterweights have both come out on top as well in their previous five fights. Islam does have a higher takedown average than Maddalena, though. This is also evident, as evidenced by his three submissions in his last five fights. Usually, the heavier fighter can use their weight to exhaust their opponent through domination in a grapple, but in this case, it will be more about executing technique if the fight goes to the ground. The other side to this is Maddelenas’ takedown defense, which is comparatively lower than Makhachev’s. His last five fights were won more through impressive striking, although split decisions often decided them. Also, Maddelena is defending his title in this fight. That factor could bring him additional motivation to keep this fight standing. He is noted for having delivered heavy strikes and landed elbows in the past.
Islam is primarily a mauler; he likes to take the ground and avoid heavy shots like the ones Maddalena will likely throw. It is likely that Islam could secure an arm triangle if Maddalena defends himself while trying to keep Makhachev from securing the submission. However, Maddalena prevented six of nine takedowns at UFC 315 against Belal Muhammad. Islam is unique in its stance, which differs from the stance Maddalena primarily fights with. The biggest draw or bait Islam could give is a fake takedown attempt, only to disrupt any combination strikes Maddalena looks to set up. This is because if Jack sets up a consecutive series of strikes, they’re likely to find their mark. Islam is definitely anticipating this too, and, ideally, with a title fight on the line, will look for the fight not to go to decision.
Jack would also benefit from the fight not going to a decision, as this could work against his favor. If it doesn’t go in his favor, it would be likely that Islam has maintained a dominant ground position and landed more strikes per minute than Jack. This fight could even mirror UFC 321, where it was seen in just the first round that Azamat Murzakanov knocked out his opponent under a series of powerful strikes. The fight in this perspective could go to Jack if it remains standing. If both fighters go to the ground, Islam could find his edge there. Either way, tune in to see how this title fight goes.
