Loudmouth sees Islam Makhachev as favorite against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322

Islam makhachev fighting in UFC 302. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

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With the official announcement of the fight between Jack Della Maddalena e Islam makhachev for the world welterweight title (up to 77,1 kg), several MMA personalities have expressed their opinions regarding the favoritism for the fight. While Robert Whittaker does not see great chances for the Russian, Colby covington believes that the training partner of Khabib Nurmagomedov should become another athlete to win two Ultimate belts.

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The statement was made in an interview with American reporter Helen Yee. When asked about the UFC 322 main event, which will be held at the legendary Madison Square Garden, Covington didn't sit on the fence and highlighted Makhachev's grappling skills.

"Islam is a lightweight, he'll be a bit smaller in the fight, but he's a complete fighter. So, if he can take JDM down and control him, he'll definitely win. But it'll be interesting to see how his size advantage will make a difference in the fight. The odds were in Makhachev's favor, so I think I'll have to trust them," he stated.

Colby covington picks Islam makhachev over Jack Della Maddalena

"Islam is a lightweight, he's gonna be a little smaller in the fight, but he's a well-rounded fighter. So if he's able to takedown JDM and control him, he could definitely get the job done. But it's gonna be… pic.twitter.com/u77rHkW8De

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) September 1, 2025

Islam Makhachev seeks historic UFC feat

Islam makhachev defended the belt in UFC 311. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

A victory against Della Maddalena could change the course of the Russian's career. Besides becoming the tenth fighter in history to win belts in two weight classes, Makhachev would reach the mark of 16 consecutive victories in the organization, leaving Kamaru Usman backwards and equaling Anderson Silva as the two athletes with the most consecutive defeats. His only professional setback came almost a decade ago, when he was knocked out by Brazilian Adriano Martins at UFC 192.