Maddalena vs. Makhachev: who writes history in New York?

The clash between Maddalena vs. Makhachev is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about UFC fights of the year. Two completely different fighters—explosive striker Jack Della Maddalena and ice-cold grappler Islam Makhachev—meet inside Madison Square Garden, the temple of legendary combat sports moments. This is more than a title fight; it’s a collision of styles, strategy, and eras. Fans and experts everywhere are asking: who will make history in New York?

Two worlds, one octagon

Jack Della Maddalena is a storm in the welterweight division. His fluid boxing style, precision, and aggressive timing make him a dangerous matchup for anyone. He has won nearly all his UFC fights convincingly, often within the first rounds. His speed and fight IQ give opponents little time to adjust.

Islam Makhachev, on the other hand, is a master of control and ground dominance. His sambo-based grappling and positional pressure have carried him to the top of the UFC, with wins over Charles Oliveira and Alexander Volkanovski. This matchup is the classic striker vs. grappler scenario, where even the smallest mistake can change everything. Both fighters have refined their styles to near-perfect form.

Striking vs. grappling: The ultimate contrast

Maddalena dictates the pace with controlled aggression. His jab and combinations are razor-sharp, and his ability to exploit micro-mistakes makes him uniquely dangerous. One clean punch could end the fight instantly. His explosiveness and creativity in the stand-up will be crucial to disrupt Makhachev’s game plan.

Makhachev relies on patience and strategic control. His takedowns feel inevitable, and once the fight hits the mat, escape becomes nearly impossible. For Maddalena, sharp footwork and takedown avoidance are essential. Still, overly aggressive pressure from him could put Makhachev on the defensive, opening unexpected opportunities.

New York as the battleground

Madison Square Garden is more than a venue—it’s a symbol of combat sports history. Winning here is not just beating an opponent; it’s cementing a legacy. The crowd, the energy, the iconic atmosphere: everything amplifies the stakes.

For Maddalena, a win could make him the first Australian striker to topple a Dagestani champion. For Makhachev, it’s a chance to further solidify himself as one of the greatest fighters of all time. This fight could shape careers forever.

Fans, media & worldwide hype

Social media has been on fire since the announcement. Fans and analysts are split—some see Maddalena as the underdog who could shock the world, while others believe in Makhachev’s unbreakable dominance. Memes, polls, predictions, and simulations have only added fuel to the fire.

Media are calling it “precision vs. pressure,” and Dana White himself described it as a fight where anything can happen. Both fighters have shown mutual respect, making this all about the performance—no trash talk, just pure competition.

Fight prediction: Who has the edge?

For Maddalena, victory depends on speed, distance management, and early chaos. One perfectly timed punch could change the fight instantly. His best chance lies in a fast, aggressive opening that prevents Makhachev from initiating grappling exchanges.

Makhachev’s edge is in patience and positional control. Once he presses Maddalena against the cage and secures a takedown, he can dominate. The strategic advantage leans slightly toward Makhachev, but one explosive moment from Maddalena could flip the script.

Modern MMA: What this fight teaches us

MMA has evolved. Where once specialists ruled, versatility now wins fights. Maddalena shows that a striker with smart defense and timing is dangerous at any level. Makhachev proves that elite grappling and strategic pressure still shape the sport.

This fight is a masterclass for young fighters: adaptability and fight IQ are everything. The one who transitions best between offense, defense, and strategy will come out on top.

Don’t miss this clash

Maddalena vs. Makhachev is a must-watch for every MMA fan—two fighters, two styles, one battle that could define an era. Want to experience the action live?

📅 Date: November 16, 2025
🕐 Time: 03:00 AM CET
📺 Watch on: HBO Max

Be part of the moment — this is a fight you don’t want to miss.