In a blockbuster prediction that has sent shockwaves through the mixed martial arts world, former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has forecast a stunning knockout victory for Australian fighter Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322.
Adesanya's Bold Knockout Prediction
The 'Stylebender', widely regarded as one of the sport's modern greats, has publicly backed the West Australian to defend his welterweight crown against the formidable former lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev. The highly anticipated clash is set to headline the event at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York this Sunday.
Adesanya detailed his analysis on his YouTube channel, explaining that while he respects Makhachev's world-class grappling, he believes Della Maddalena's relentless pressure and striking will be the deciding factors. "I'm not trying to count Islam out, but I just know Jack, I know that when Jack keeps getting up, it's going to be a problem," Adesanya stated. He envisions a scenario where Makhachev is forced into a stand-up battle, leading to his downfall, potentially as early as the second round.
Della Maddalena's Confident Preparation
This will be the first title defence for Jack Della Maddalena (18-2), who etched his name into Australian sporting history in May by defeating Belal Muhammad to become the first West Australian to ever win a UFC championship. His opponent, Islam Makhachev (27-1), brings a fearsome reputation and a dominant record from the lightweight division.
The Australian champion's camp has been a hive of elite activity, with Della Maddalena revealing he has been sharpening his skills alongside fellow Aussie great Alexander Volkanovski and grappling specialist Craig Jones. His focus has been on creating a comprehensive game plan that plays to his strengths while nullifying Makhachev's renowned ground game.
"(There's been) a lot of wrestling, but I'm not shying away from where I think my strengths lie," Della Maddalena told The West Australian. "I'm working a strong game plan... I want to lead the fight — beat him up — so, a lot of striking, finishing shots."
A Young Aussie Ready for War
Exuding the confidence of a true champion, Della Maddalena has promised to leave everything in the octagon. "It's gonna be a good fight, I'm going to defend my belt, I'm going to leave it all on the line," he declared. "I'm a young Aussie boy who is going to leave it all on the line out there, remain victorious."
When pressed on how he sees the fight ending, his response was unequivocal and brutal. "Any strike to the head, the body, just break his will, break his face," he said. "I expect to blow the roof off the place." This sets the stage for a classic striker versus grappler matchup, with the Australian's powerful hands poised against the Russian's suffocating ground control.
With a legendary fighter like Adesanya in his corner and a nation behind him, all eyes will be on Jack Della Maddalena as he steps into the Madison Square Garden spotlight for the biggest fight of the year.
