Islam Makhachev became the new UFC welterweight champion, defeating Jack Della Maddalena by unanimous decision

Russian fighter Islam Makhachev claimed his second UFC championship title by defeating Australian Jack Della Maddalena via unanimous decision at UFC 322 in New York. All three judges scored the fight for the Russian: 50–45, 50–45, 50–45.

Previously, Makhachev held the lightweight title, and now he has also become champion in the welterweight division. Thus, he became the first fighter from Russia to win belts in two divisions and the 11th in UFC history to achieve such a feat.

After the fight, Islam shared his emotions:

“This is a dream. I’ve been walking toward these two belts my whole life. I’m happy — words can’t describe it. I worked hard for this moment, thank you all.”

In the co-main event, Valentina Shevchenko earned a confident unanimous decision victory over Weili Zhang and successfully defended her flyweight title.

Makhachev’s response to Topuria’s jab
After UFC 322, the champion also received a verbal strike from Ilia Topuria, who called Makhachev “boring” and claimed he would “put him to sleep.” The Georgian-Spanish fighter also criticized Islam’s performance:

“Jack needs an entire camp dedicated only to wrestling. What a disappointment, champion. You should go to Georgia and learn something.

Islam, you need what can’t be trained: emotions. You are the most boring thing in this game. Every day I’m more convinced I’ll put you to sleep.”

Makhachev did not escalate the conflict and calmly responded:

“Respond to Topuria? I have no injuries or serious damage. I’m ready. Whoever is next — I’m in. It will be easy.”

It seems that a potential Makhachev vs. Topuria bout could become one of the most anticipated fights in the near future.