Coach reveals Makhachev's trump card against Della Maddalena, but admits: 'It's a puzzle'

Islam makhachev is the next challenger for the welterweight title. Photo: Reproduction/UFC

Islam makhachev prepare for one of the biggest challenges of your career by facing Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight belt, in UFC 322If he wins, the Russian will join a select group of fighters who have won titles in two weight classes in the organization. Despite expectations, Makhachev's coach, Javier Mendez, warns that the fight will not be easy, especially given the Australian champion's size and striking skills.

For Mendez, Makhachev's physical strength will be the most important asset to overcome Jack Della Maddalena No. UFC 322The coach believes that, despite the natural difficulties of facing a larger and more skilled opponent in striking, the Russian's ability to impose his strength could be the deciding factor in his fight for the welterweight title.

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"I think our biggest advantage is that he's very strong. Super, super strong. Of all my lightweights, he's the strongest. I can't even think of another lightweight as strong as him. It's not even close; he's the strongest. So, of all the fighters I have, he has the best opportunity to handle the strength of bigger guys," the coach said in an interview with 'Submisson Radio'.

Despite recognizing his protégé's strength as a key factor in the fight, Mendez admits that defeating Della Maddalena will be a real challenge. The coach emphasizes that the Australian's style, combined with his physical stature and adaptability, transforms the fight into a "puzzle" to be solved. Therefore, Mendez emphasizes the need to study every detail of the opponent to devise the best strategy and ensure Makhachev can impose his game inside the octagon.

"I've never watched videos of an Islamic fight before. Never. This is the first time, because I respect this guy (Della Maddalena) so much; he's a puzzle. It's not easy. I'm telling you, it's not easy. We'll make it, but it won't be easy, and I have to be confident that we'll make it," he concluded.