- Makhachev's 3.19 takedowns per fight vs Della Maddalena's 70% TDD shows clear grappling advantage
- Islam's 1.1 submission average per fight against Jack's limited ground game experience
- Makhachev's recent form includes 3 submission wins in last 5 fights at championship level
- Della Maddalena's striking volume (6.74 SLPM) won't matter if fight hits the mat
Write-up
This is an unusual matchup with Makhachev moving up to welterweight. Despite the weight class change, Makhachev's elite grappling and submission game should overwhelm Della Maddalena. Jack has shown vulnerability to grapplers (70% TDD) and Makhachev averages 3.19 takedowns per fight with a 53% accuracy rate. The size difference won't be enough to overcome the massive grappling disparity. Makhachev's 1.1 submissions per fight and recent submission victories over elite competition make him the clear favorite despite moving up in weight.
- Elite grappling and positional control from Islam Makhachev
- Significant takedown and submission threat differential
- Makhachev's proven success against high-output strikers
Write-up
Islam Makhachev's elite grappling, superior takedown average (3.19 per fight), and high takedown accuracy (53%) present significant stylistic challenges for Jack Della Maddalena, who defends takedowns at just 70% and has minimal offensive wrestling. While Maddalena's striking output is high (6.74 SLPM, 53% accuracy), Makhachev's defensive proficiency and ability to dictate where the fight takes place should neutralize Maddalena's main weapons, leading to a clear decision victory.