Islam Makhachev's coach criticizes Jack Della Maddalena's former opponent ahead of UFC 322.

Javier Mendez, coach of Islam makhachev. Photo: Instagram / Javier Mendez

In the week of one of the most anticipated events of the year, Islam makhachev He could change his level as a fighter if he wins against Jack Della Maddalena in the main fight of UFC 322In this context, the Russian's main coach has been studying the new champion's other fights and believes that winning the welterweight title (up to 77,1 kg) against Belal Muhammad | It was the result of a combination of the Australian's skill and poor tactical judgment on the part of the Palestinian.

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In an interview with 'Submission Radio', Javier Mendez revealed that he had watched Maddalena's last performance on more than one occasion. The head of the American Kickboxing Academy, the coach has been largely responsible for Makhachev's training in the United States for several years.

“I watched that fight so many times. It was tied 2-2 until the last round. That's when Jack won. In my opinion, it was very close, but I scored the victory for Jack for sure. It wasn't an easy win at all. Belal came to fight. Belal simply fought with the wrong strategy, while Jack fought with the right strategy,” Mendez stated.

️ Javier Mendez believes Belal fought with the wrong strategy against Jack Della

“I really watched that so many times. I had that sucker 2–2 until the last round. Which is where Jack won.”

"In my opinion, it was really close, but I had it for Jack for sure. It wasn't a give me… pic.twitter.com/QyHxyDVlOp

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) November 10, 2025

After losing his first two professional fights, Maddalena is on an 18-fight winning streak as a professional wrestler. Another victory would see him defend his title for the first time and make him the first to defeat Makhachev in over a decade. For Makhachev, the fight would be an opportunity to reach the top of another weight class and solidify his status as one of the best fighters in history.

Jack Della Maddalena is the current welterweight champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram