Overview

• UFC CEO Dana White confirmed the welterweight title fight for Nov. 15 at Madison Square Garden, with Jack Della Maddalena facing former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.
• Makhachev vacated the lightweight belt after four defenses to pursue a second title at 170 pounds, entering 27-1 with dominant wrestling credentials.
• Betting markets list Makhachev as the favorite at roughly -230 versus +195 for Della Maddalena, though some commentators call those odds too wide.
• Robert Whittaker picked Della Maddalena, highlighting his jiu-jitsu and offense off his back, while Luke Thomas and Steve Erceg cited JDM’s improved takedown defense and striking threat.
• Makhachev signaled laser focus in camp with a viral message that he will rest only on Nov. 16, as Della Maddalena continues extended work with grappling specialist Craig Jones.