Islam Makhachev defeats Jack Della Maddalena to become UFC’s new welterweight champion: full review of the Fight of the Year
Russian mixed martial artist Islam Makhachev became the new UFC welterweight champion by defeating Australian Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322, held at Madison Square Garden and widely labeled by fans as the “Fight of the Year.”
The year 2025 became a turning point in Islam’s career. After several successful title defenses in the lightweight division, he announced his move to the welterweight division to pursue a new goal. This decision made a huge impact in the MMA community, as welterweight is known as one of the strongest and toughest divisions in the UFC. Jack Della Maddalena — a powerful striker with an aggressive style and an 18-fight winning streak — was a major test for Makhachev.
The fight lasted a full five rounds, and the judges unanimously scored it 50–45, 50–45, 50–45 in favor of Makhachev, proving his clear dominance. This victory became the 28th professional win of his career and earned him a UFC title in a second weight class. Makhachev is now the first Russian fighter in UFC history to become champion in two different divisions. Only legendary names such as Conor McGregor, Amanda Nunes, Henry Cejudo, Daniel Cormier, and Alex Pereira achieved this before him. Now, Islam Makhachev joins their ranks.
Australian fighter Jack Della Maddalena suffered only the third loss of his career. His previous defeat was nine years ago — in May 2016. Since then, he had won 18 fights in a row. This loss does not diminish his status, as he still remains one of the strongest fighters in his division.
UFC 322 was not just another event — it will enter MMA history as the “Fight of the Year.” By becoming a two-division champion, Islam Makhachev proved once again that he is one of the greatest fighters of modern MMA. He didn’t just win — he wrote his name into UFC history.
