In a sport defined by fearlessness and heart, Jack Della Maddalena has just made a statement that could shake the lightweight division to its core. With the highly anticipated showdown against reigning champion Islam Makhachev looming on the horizon, the rising Australian star isn’t backing down. In fact, he’s leaning in, boldly declaring:

“I can take Makhachev out — and I will.”

These words didn’t come quietly. They were delivered with conviction, intensity, and the kind of belief that has transformed Della Maddalena into one of the UFC’s fastest-rising fighters. As the MMA world gears up for what could be the most intriguing non-title matchup in recent UFC history, one thing is clear: Jack Della Maddalena is not afraid of Islam Makhachev — not even a little.

Jack Della Maddalena’s Confidence: Real or Reckless?

Jack Della Maddalena (17-2, 11 KOs) has surged through the UFC’s welterweight division with crisp boxing, lethal bodywork, and a calm, composed demeanor that belies his devastating finishing ability. Yet despite his success at 170 pounds, his callout of Islam Makhachev, the king of the 155-pound class, raised eyebrows.

But this isn’t just trash talk. Jack believes he has the tools to dismantle the champion.

“People are scared of Islam because they think he’s unbeatable,” he told reporters.
“But every fighter is human. Every champion bleeds. I’m going to test his chin, his cardio, his will. And I believe I can break him.”

This level of audacity might sound delusional to some, but those who’ve followed Della Maddalena’s journey from local Perth fights to UFC main cards know better. He’s thrived in tough matchups, fought through adversity, and emerged victorious against seasoned opponents.

Facing the Dagestani Machine: Why Della Maddalena Is Undeterred

Islam Makhachev (25-1, 5 KOs, 11 subs) has carved a legacy rooted in precision, pressure, and near-perfect execution. Trained under Khabib Nurmagomedov and molded by years of grinding combat in Dagestan, Makhachev has become the blueprint for dominance in the modern UFC.

His wins over elite fighters like Charles Oliveira, Alexander Volkanovski, and Dustin Poirier showcase his ability to adapt and overwhelm. But Della Maddalena isn’t impressed by records or reputations.

“He’s good, but he’s not invincible,” Jack said. “Everyone fights scared. I won’t. I’ll go after him. I’ll take the center of the Octagon, and I’ll fight like I always do — with fire.”

That pressure-forward style is a double-edged sword against someone like Makhachev, who capitalizes on overextensions and mistakes. Still, Jack’s precise striking and strong takedown defense could make this far more competitive than some expect.

A Massive Stage for a Monumental Clash

Set for August 17 at Madison Square Garden, this bout is being treated like a pseudo-super fight despite no belt on the line. Slated for a 165-pound catchweight, the fight offers both men the freedom to perform at their best without a brutal weight cut.

UFC President Dana White has confirmed that this main event slot is all but guaranteed, adding:

“Jack’s fearless. Islam’s dominant. This is the kind of matchup that makes legends.”

For Della Maddalena, it’s also a chance to test himself against the UFC’s elite. A victory over Makhachev could skyrocket his career — not just across divisions, but globally.

Training Like a Champion for a Champion

To prepare, Jack has relocated his camp to Thailand, focusing on explosive conditioning, cage control, and takedown resistance. He’s sparring with high-level strikers and grapplers alike, sharpening his skills for the ultimate test.

“I’m not going in there to survive,” Jack said. “I’m going in there to win — and to finish him.”

Meanwhile, Makhachev remains locked in at AKA in San Jose, refining his game alongside top-tier wrestlers and UFC-caliber partners. Coach Javier Mendez believes that Della Maddalena presents “dangerous hands” but insists Islam is more than ready.

“He’s faced killers before,” Mendez stated. “Jack hits hard, but Islam’s seen it all.”

A Test of Style and Spirit

This matchup isn’t just about skills. It’s about mentality. Makhachev fights like a general — calm, strategic, relentless. Jack fights like a gunslinger — calculated but explosive, hunting the finish.

“Pressure is a privilege,” said Della Maddalena. “And I’ll bring it to his doorstep.”

The UFC has rarely seen two fighters with such contrasting styles meet under such intriguing circumstances. Makhachev’s suffocating wrestling vs. Jack’s sniper-like boxing. Dagestani discipline vs. Australian aggression.

It’s a clash of philosophies as much as it is fists.

Fan Reactions and Global Buzz

Online MMA communities are buzzing with speculation. Can Jack stop the takedowns? Will Islam risk trading punches with such a sharp striker?

• “Jack has the killer instinct — but can he stay off his back?” wrote one Reddit user.

• “This is a banger. Islam needs to respect those hands,” tweeted UFC veteran Dan Hardy.

Australian fans have erupted with national pride. Meanwhile, fans in Russia are equally vocal, confident that Makhachev will handle business as usual.

“He’s never fought someone like me,” Della Maddalena repeated. “I’m not afraid. I’m coming to take him out.”

A Star-Making Opportunity or a Hard Lesson?

For Islam Makhachev, this fight is about legacy — and perhaps even securing a move up to welterweight after another big win. For Jack Della Maddalena, it’s about belonging — proving that he doesn’t just deserve to be in the conversation but at the head of the table.

The stakes couldn’t be higher.

The moment couldn’t be bigger.

And Jack Della Maddalena is walking into it with no fear in his heart, just fire in his hands.

“I’m going to shock the world,” he said. “And I’ll do it by taking Makhachev out — clean.”