Overview
- Jack Della Maddalena defends the UFC welterweight title against former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev on Nov. 15 at Madison Square Garden.
- Della Maddalena says his ideal outcome is to repeatedly stand after takedowns, hurt Makhachev on the feet, and score a knockout at MSG.
- Michael Chandler gives Della Maddalena a slight edge based on striking power, though betting lines still lean toward Makhachev winning a second UFC belt.
- Makhachev enters his 170-pound debut on a long unbeaten run, while Della Maddalena rides an 18-fight win streak after taking the belt from Belal Muhammad in May.
- Della Maddalena says he plans multiple title defenses at welterweight before considering a move to middleweight for a potential bout with Khamzat Chimaev, and he recalled Kevin Holland as his funniest opponent for chatting mid-fight.