Key Highlights
- Islam Makhachev moves up to welterweight to challenge Jack Della Maddalena for his belt.
- The fight is set for Saturday 15 November at Madison Square Garden, New York City.
- Makhachev vacated the lightweight title earlier this year to make a move in weight.
- Zhang Weili also aims to move up a division and challenge Valentina Shevchenko for the flyweight title.
UFC 322: Della Maddalena vs Makhachev – The High-Stakes Welterweight Title Fight
The upcoming UFC 322 event, scheduled for Saturday 15 November at Madison Square Garden in New York City, promises to be a thrilling night of combat sports. Among the most anticipated matchups is the welterweight title clash between Jack Della Maddalena and Islam Makhachev. Della Maddalena, known as “JDM” from Australia, successfully defended his welterweight title against Belal Muhammad in May, securing his position at 170lb. However, Makhachev’s recent move up a division presents an intriguing challenge.
Makhachev’s Ascension to Welterweight
Islam Makhachev, who previously held the lightweight title, decided to vacate it earlier this year to focus on a potential move in weight. Despite his initial reluctance to challenge Muhammad, Makhachev’s decision opened up an opportunity for him to pursue two-division champion status. At 34 years old, Makhachev is determined to make a statement against Della Maddalena and secure the welterweight title.
Matchup Analysis
The match-up between Della Maddalena and Makhachev has generated significant interest among fans. While Della Maddalena boasts a clean record in his recent bout, Makhachev brings a wealth of experience to the table. The fight is scheduled for 3am GMT on Sunday (7pm PT / 9pm CT / 10pm ET), following the main card which begins at 1am GMT (5pm PT / 7pm CT / 8pm ET).
How to Watch UFC 322
In the UK, viewers can access the main card for £19.99 on TNT Sports Box Office or via other platforms like Discovery+, EE TV, Virgin Media, Amazon Prime Video, and Sky Sports. The preliminary matches will be available through Discovery+ and UFC Fight Pass.
The Larger MMA Context
UFC 322 is part of a broader landscape in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA). As fighters like Makhachev and Della Maddalena aim to establish themselves at higher weight classes, it highlights the dynamic nature of the sport. The event also features other high-profile matchups such as Valentina Shevchenko defending her flyweight title against Zhang Weili, who is moving up from strawweight.
These shifts in weight classes and titles underscore the evolving landscape of MMA. As fighters like Makhachev and Della Maddalena prepare for their showdown, fans can look forward to a night filled with excitement and tension at Madison Square Garden on 15 November.
