Dustin Poirier Analyzes UFC 322 Main Event: Maddalena vs. Makhachev

Dustin Poirier recently analyzed the main event of UFC 322, featuring Jack Della Maddalena and Islam Makhachev. This significant match is set to take place at Madison Square Garden, where Della Maddalena will defend his welterweight title for the first time against the former lightweight champion, Makhachev.

Dustin Poirier’s Insights on the UFC 322 Main Event

Poirier, who previously faced Makhachev at UFC 302 in June 2024, highlighted the importance of takedown defense in this matchup. Although he lost that encounter via submission in the fifth round, he is familiar with Makhachev’s fighting style. Poirier stated, “I think both guys are great at certain things. It’s all going to come down to the takedown defense of JDM.”

Fighter Profiles

• Jack Della Maddalena:
  • Title: Welterweight Champion
  • UFC Record: 8-0
  • Current Winning Streak: 18 fights, including a Fight of the Year win over Belal Muhammad at UFC 315 in May.
• Islam Makhachev:
  • Age: 34 years
  • Current Streak: 15 straight wins
  • Previous Title: Lightweight Champion with four successful title defenses.
  • Most Recent Bout: Quick victory over Renato Moicano at UFC 311 in January.

Poirier expressed excitement for Makhachev, stating, “He’s trying to continue making history.” He plans to attend the event, emphasizing its significance in the MMA world. Poirier mentioned the physical attributes of Makhachev, noting that size will not be a disadvantage for him moving to welterweight. “He’s a big guy,” Poirier remarked, explaining that Makhachev has the physique to compete effectively in this class.

Key Matchup Factors

According to Poirier, the fight will hinge on Della Maddalena’s ability to stand up after being taken down. If he can evade Makhachev’s grappling and maintain his striking advantages, he may pose a significant challenge. Poirier emphasized, “If JDM can get back up over and over and scramble, I think he’s going to give Islam a lot of problems with the exchanges of boxing.”

As UFC 322 approaches, fans eagerly anticipate whether Della Maddalena can capitalize on his title defense or if Makhachev will achieve glory as a two-division champion. This clash at Madison Square Garden promises to be a pivotal moment in the careers of both fighters.