Makhachev Dominates Della Maddalena to Capture UFC Welterweight Title

Islam Makhachev secured the UFC welterweight championship with a commanding unanimous decision victory over Jack Della Maddalena at Madison Square Garden on October 21, 2023. Makhachev’s relentless grappling and tactical prowess overwhelmed Della Maddalena throughout the five-round bout, culminating in a score of 50-45 from all three judges.

Stepping up a weight class after vacating his lightweight title, Makhachev showcased his grappling acumen and striking strategy, effectively neutralizing his Australian opponent. The 34-year-old fighter began the match by delivering punishing calf kicks, which set the stage for a series of wrestling exchanges that left Della Maddalena struggling to respond. For extended periods, Della Maddalena found himself on the mat, facing submission threats as Makhachev maintained pressure with expert control.

“This is my plan. It’s not a secret; all my opponents know this, and nobody can stop it,” Makhachev stated after his victory. He expressed a desire to defend his title at a proposed event on the White House lawn in 2026, indicating his ambition to further his legacy in the sport. With this win, Makhachev joined an elite group as the 11th fighter in UFC history to hold titles across two weight classes.

Shevchenko Retains Title in Co-Main Event

In the co-main event, Valentina Shevchenko successfully defended her flyweight title against Zhang Weili. Shevchenko delivered a masterclass performance, dominating the fight and employing a diverse skill set. The 37-year-old from Kyrgyzstan utilized effective striking, punishing body kicks, and strategic grappling to control the fight.

Shevchenko’s tactical approach ensured she won every round on the judges’ scorecards, further solidifying her status as one of the premier fighters in UFC history. After the bout, she reflected on her preparation, stating, “I was preparing for this fight as the hardest challenge in my life.” Her victory dance in the cage exemplified her joy and relief after a competitive fight.

The event, marked by Makhachev’s ascent and Shevchenko’s continued reign, highlighted the intensity and excitement of UFC competitions, leaving fans eager for future matchups in both divisions.