“Back to Dagestan!” – Ilia Topuria Taunts Islam Makhachev Ahead of UFC 322 Title Fight Against Jack Della Maddalena
Islam Makhachev is set to face Jack Della Maddalena in the highly anticipated main event of UFC 322. The bout will take place inside the world-famous Madison Square Garden, adding historic significance and excitement to the thrilling showdown. Heading into the fight, Makhachev remains the strong fan favourite, while Ilia Topuria believes he has everything to lose.
A few months ago, Makhachev vacated his lightweight title, and later at UFC 317, Topuria captured the vacant title. The Dagestani mentioned that chasing the welterweight title was more important to him, but the Georgian-Spanish accused him of ducking. In a recent interview, Topuria talked about Makhachev vs. Della Maddelena fought and took this opportunity to mock the Dagestani.
“If Islam loses, he can return back to Dagestan, to his farm, and continue herding sheep. If he wins, I will definitely move up. Definitely, 100 percent,” said Ilia Topuria. The rivalry between Topuria and Makhachev has been going around for years and has the potential to be a blockbuster event.
The ‘El Matador’ has also revealed that he could fight in the first UFC Paramount card in January 2026. According to Topuria, his vs. Makhachev at the main event of the upcoming White House event would be the biggest fight.
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Islam Makhachev vs. Jack Della Maddalena rivalry
Ahead of the UFC 322 showdown, Jack Della Maddalena has expressed immense confidence in his ability to defeat Islam Makhachev. Currently, JDM is sharpening his skills with featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski, who has already tested Makhachev’s abilities twice inside the Octagon. Motivated by Volkanovski, Della Maddalena seeks redemption for his countryman and plans to secure a knockout victory at MSG.
Meanwhile, Makhachev is fully prepared for the challenge, showcasing a noticeably larger physique in his recent training footage. The Dagestani still possesses a massive wrestling edge over JDM, coupled with threatening submissions and relentless pressure. Fans and analysts remain split, debating whether Maddalena’s striking power can overcome Makhachev’s grappling supremacy in this explosive main event.
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