UFC 322 Set for Thriller Between Makhachev and Della Maddalena
So, UFC 322 is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing matchups we've seen in a long time, with former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev going head-to-head with welterweight standout Jack Della Maddalena. The fight is scheduled for November 15 at Madison Square Garden in New York, and it’s already generating a lot of buzz. The consensus might have Della Maddalena as the underdog, but many, including UFC Hall of Famer Michael Bisping, think this fight is far from a one-sided affair.
Bisping recently shared his take on the matchup, and he made a compelling point. He highlighted Della Maddalena’s recent win over Belal Muhammad at UFC 315 as the “perfect warm-up fight” for taking on someone like Makhachev. Muhammad, known for his style and resilience, is the kind of opponent that mirrors aspects of Makhachev’s game. Bisping noted how Della Maddalena dominated Muhammad with sharp boxing, crisp footwork, and excellent takedown defense, and that experience could be crucial when stepping into the octagon with the second-longest winning streak in UFC history.
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What makes this fight so fascinating, according to Bisping, is that it truly feels like a 50/50 scenario. Della Maddalena has an impressive 18-fight winning streak after dropping his first two MMA bouts, and he currently ranks number one in the USA TODAY Sports/MMA Junkie welterweight rankings. Makhachev, meanwhile, has remained undefeated for over a decade and is eyeing a place alongside Anderson Silva for the longest winning streak in UFC history. These are two elite fighters with very different strengths, and that contrast is part of what makes UFC 322 so compelling.
Bisping broke it down further: on the feet, Della Maddalena might have the advantage, while Makhachev dominates on the grappling side. But beyond technique, there are the intangibles—training, determination, mindset—that could tip the scales. Makhachev, who has spent his career at this weight class and trains with Khabib Nurmagomedov, will be leaving nothing to chance. Yet Della Maddalena didn’t reach this point by accident. His skill set, preparation, and fighting spirit make him a legitimate threat, and Bisping openly admitted he could see either fighter coming out on top.
All in all, UFC 322 promises to be an electrifying clash of styles, experience, and sheer determination. Makhachev is the seasoned grappling powerhouse aiming to extend his historic streak, while Della Maddalena is the rising star with momentum, striking precision, and the confidence to pull off an upset. It’s the kind of fight that could go down to the wire, and honestly, no one would be shocked by the outcome—because in a matchup like this, it really is anyone’s game.
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