Islam Makhachev left Jack Della Maddalena completely demoralized, and the MMA world wondering if there’s anyone who can stop him.
The former lightweight champion added welterweight gold to his impeccable résumé with a one-sided decision win over Della Maddalena in the main event of UFC 322 on Saturday at Madison Square Garden in New York. Makhachev’s famed wrestling was on full display as he grounded Della Maddalena at will and controlled him on the ground for the vast majority of the duration of their
five-round fight. When the final bell rang, it was obvious Makhachev had joined the rarified air of UFC two-division champions.
Makhachev has now won 16 straight fights, tying a UFC record held by the great Anderson Silva. His move up to welterweight only came after he defended the lightweight title four times, also a UFC record.
As outstanding as Makhachev was, Della Maddalena’s flat performance was equally disappointing, and the MMA Saturday’s headliner as well.
Check out how the pros reacted on social media below.
