Makhachev’s Masterclass Secures Two-Weight Glory
Islam Makhachev cemented his place among UFC greats by overwhelming Jack Della Maddalena to claim the welterweight championship at UFC 322 in New York. With a flawless 50-45, 50-45, 50-45 unanimous decision, the former lightweight king became only the 11th two-division champion in UFC history.
Makhachev’s relentless grappling and tactical precision left no openings for the Australian, who entered with tremendous momentum but struggled against the Russian’s suffocating style. Guided by mentor and UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, Makhachev extended his unbeaten run to a decade, improving his record to 28-1.
“I feel amazing… we trained so hard for Jack, and that’s why the fight looked easy,” Makhachev said, already eyeing a slot on next summer’s UFC event at the White House. “I’m ready for the biggest names in this sport.”
Della Maddalena Suffers Rare Setback
For Jack Della Maddalena, the loss ended a remarkable streak dating back to 2016. The Australian, now 18-3, was outworked throughout the five rounds but remains firmly among the division’s elite. His durability and composure suggest that he’ll remain a future threat at welterweight.
Shevchenko Extends Dominance, Matches Nunes’ Record
On a night of champions rising, Valentina Shevchenko delivered another powerful statement, outclassing Zhang Weili to defend her flyweight title. The unanimous 50-45 sweep showcased her trademark precision, composure, and control across all five rounds.
With the victory, Shevchenko ties Amanda Nunes for the most UFC women’s title fight wins (11) and becomes only the second female two-division champion—uniquely conquering strawweight and flyweight, a first in UFC history.
“I wanted to show dominant positions everywhere,” she said after improving her record to 26-4-1. Weili, fighting up a weight class after vacating the strawweight belt, suffered her first loss in four years.
Edwards Faces Toughest Career Moment After Knockout Loss
Former welterweight champion Leon Edwards endured a devastating setback, knocked out by Brazil’s Carlos Prates in the second round. Edwards began strongly but was halted by a perfect straight left, marking his third consecutive defeat and his first career knockout loss.
At 34, the Briton is now at a crossroads after slipping to 21-6, while Prates—now 23-5 with 18 knockout wins—propels himself into the welterweight title conversation.
A Night That Redefined Multiple Divisions
UFC 322 delivered seismic shifts across weight classes: Makhachev’s coronation at welterweight, Shevchenko’s historic milestone, and Prates’ explosive rise all underscored the sport’s evolving hierarchy. From legacy-building performances to career-altering defeats, Madison Square Garden once again proved why it remains MMA’s most iconic stage.
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