Islam Makhachev Vs JDM: Superfight Rumors Heat Up As Lightweight King Targets Welterweight Glory
Speculation surrounding a monumental champion-versus-contender bout between UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev and Australian welterweight powerhouse Jack Della Maddalena (JDM) has intensified across the MMA landscape in August 2026. With Makhachev actively pursuing a second UFC world championship belt to cement his pound-for-pound legacy, a move up to 170 pounds against a dangerous, high-volume striker like Della Maddalena presents one of the most compelling stylistic clashes in modern combat sports.
| Category | Islam Makhachev | Jack Della Maddalena (JDM) |
|---|---|---|
| Current Division | Lightweight (155 lbs) | Welterweight (170 lbs) |
| Fighting Style | Combat Sambo / Elite Grappling | Western Boxing / Anti-Wrestling |
| Home Country | Russia | Australia |
| Key Advantage | Dominant Takedowns & Top Control | Fluid Combination Punching & Scrambles |
| Projected Timeline | Late 2026 / Early 2027 | Late 2026 / Early 2027 |
Clash of Styles: Combat Sambo Dominance Meets Western Boxing Excellence
The potential showdown between Islam Makhachev and Jack Della Maddalena highlights a classic matchup between elite grappling mastery and high-level Western boxing. Makhachev has dominated the lightweight division using suffocating chain wrestling, relentless top pressure, and vastly improved striking defense. Securing a bout at 170 pounds allows Makhachev to test his grappling base against naturally larger opponents without undergoing the severe weight cuts required for 155 pounds.
Conversely, Jack Della Maddalena has carved out a path through the welterweight rankings with exceptional pocket movement, devastating body shots, and underrated defensive wrestling. The Perth native excels at creating scrambles, forcing opponents back into striking range where his leverage and output dominate. For Della Maddalena, facing Makhachev offers a career-defining opportunity to derail a pound-for-pound great and establish his supremacy over the division.
Broadcast Coverage, Weight Class Dynamics, and Viewing Access
If contract negotiations are finalized for late 2026, this cross-divisional mega-fight will headline a major UFC Pay-Per-View card. Competing at the 170-pound welterweight limit grants Della Maddalena a distinct structural frame advantage while allowing Makhachev optimal power retention without drastic dehydration.
- United States Broadcast: Exclusively available via ESPN+ Pay-Per-View, with preliminary bouts airing across ESPN and ESPN+.
- Australia Broadcast: Main Event and Kayo Sports PPV, expected to draw record viewership across Australia.
- United Kingdom & Ireland: Streaming live via TNT Sports and the discovery+ app.
- International Viewing: UFC Fight Pass for early preliminary bouts and international territory streams.
Islam Makhachev | GiveMeSport
Welterweight Hierarchy and Championship Stakes for Late 2026
A bout between Makhachev and Della Maddalena carries immense consequences for two weight classes as the UFC closes out 2026. Should Makhachev successfully navigate JDM’s crisp boxing and claim a win at 170 pounds, he strengthens his position for an immediate welterweight title shot, joining the elite tier of multi-division UFC champions.
For Della Maddalena, defeating Makhachev would shut down the lightweight champion's dual-belt ambitions while proving that elite Australian boxing can neutralize Dagestani Sambo. As both fighter camps finalize training schedules for the autumn season, fight fans await an official announcement from UFC officials.
