As UFC 322 draws closer, one of the sport’s biggest stars is making a bold prediction. Former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has publicly backed Jack Della Maddalena to finish Islam Makhachev when the two collide for the welterweight title this weekend at Madison Square Garden.
The matchup is one of the most anticipated fights of the year. Makhachev, the reigning lightweight champion, is moving up to 170 pounds in pursuit of becoming a two-division titleholder. Meanwhile, Della Maddalena is looking to solidify his reign as welterweight king after dethroning Belal Muhammad in dominant fashion.
Despite Makhachev entering as the betting favorite, Adesanya believes the Australian champion’s technical boxing and resilience will make all the difference.
Israel Adesanya: “Jack Della Will Knock Him Out”
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Israel Adesanya explained why he expects Della Maddalena to end Makhachev’s historic run.
I’m not trying to count Islam out, but I just know Jack, Adesanya said. When Jack keeps getting up, it’s going to be a problem. Islam will be forced to strike, and when that happens, he’s going to get hurt. I think Islam’s one of the best in history, but even Dustin was able to stop his submissions. Jack won’t be easy to hold down.
Adesanya went further, predicting a knockout within the middle rounds:
The New Zealander also recalled how Alexander Volkanovski was able to push Makhachev to the limit when they fought in Perth. According to Adesanya, that performance exposed areas that Della Maddalena could exploit.
Makhachev’s Chance at History
While Adesanya’s prediction has fueled pre-fight debate, Islam Makhachev has far more than just a second belt at stake. A win over Della Maddalena would not only make him the UFC’s newest two-division champion, but it would also tie him with Anderson Silva for the longest winning streak in UFC history with 16 consecutive victories.
That record has stood untouched since Silva’s legendary run ended in 2012. Makhachev, who has dominated the lightweight division with his elite grappling and improved striking, could now equal one of the sport’s most iconic achievements.
However, not everyone is entirely thrilled about the prospect.
Usman Admits “Bittersweet” Feelings Ahead of UFC 322
Former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman, who himself sits just behind Silva with 15 straight UFC wins, admitted he has mixed emotions about Makhachev potentially matching and surpassing his streak.
Speaking with MMA Junkie, Usman reflected on his own experience chasing Silva’s record and how difficult it is to maintain perfection at the elite level.
It’s difficult, especially when you guys start talking about it and putting it in our heads. It’s impressive. Winning 15 in a row in the UFC is not easy. If he gets 16, that’s extremely impressive.
Usman, however, acknowledged that Makhachev’s success could push him down in the all-time rankings.
High Stakes at Madison Square Garden
Saturday night’s card at Madison Square Garden feels monumental for multiple reasons. Beyond Makhachev’s historic pursuit and Della Maddalena’s first title defense, the event also symbolizes a changing era in the UFC, with the promotion set to transition from ESPN to Paramount next year.
Inside the Octagon, though, the focus remains on the clash of styles. Makhachev’s suffocating wrestling and elite grappling will meet Della Maddalena’s clean boxing and relentless pace. If Adesanya’s prediction holds true, Makhachev may find himself in unfamiliar territory against a fighter who refuses to stay grounded.
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