Despite being recognized as one of the most dominant wrestlers and grapplers in UFC history, Islam Makhachev has reportedly received advice to focus on enhancing this particular aspect of his game.
Last week brought a surprising announcement: Islam Makhachev has vacated his lightweight championship and will instead pursue a welterweight title bout against Jack Della Maddalena.
Leading up to the UFC 315 main event, Makhachev had indicated that his next move would depend on the fight`s outcome. Della Maddalena subsequently dominated and won the title.
Following the victory, Makhachev sent a challenging message to Della Maddalena, immediately sparking the beginning of their potential rivalry.
Makhachev Told to Work on His Wrestling Ahead of Della Maddalena Fight
As of now, a date for the welterweight championship clash between Islam Makhachev and the new champion is not set. However, reports suggest the UFC`s event in Abu Dhabi in October is a possible target.
One of the most surprising elements of Della Maddalena`s win over Belal Muhammad was his exceptional wrestling defense; he successfully defended the majority of Muhammad`s takedown attempts, showcasing incredible skill.
Because of this impressive defensive display, Makhachev has been urged to refine his wrestling, even given his status as one of the sport`s premier grapplers. This advice comes from his longtime friend and training partner, Daniel Cormier.
Speaking on the “Good Guy/Bad Guy” podcast, Cormier commented, “Islam vs Jack is going to be a great fight, especially seeing Jack defend the takedowns in the way that he did. Islam struggled a little to take down Dustin Poirier… He didn’t take him down as easily as he had taken down other guys.” Cormier continued, “I think for Makhachev he needs to really lock in on getting that wrestling ready to fight a guy in Jack Della Maddalena who showed great takedown defense and, man, this dude’s got some good boxing, especially when you’re in tight with him.”
Islam Makhachev Proved His Striking With Blockbuster KO Over Volkanovski
Although Della Maddalena is often considered to have the striking advantage in the potential matchup, Makhachev has demonstrated elite striking skills throughout his UFC career.
This capability was particularly evident to fans when he knocked out Alexander Volkanovski in their rematch at UFC 294 with a brutal first-round head kick.
Della Maddalena`s striking style primarily relies on his boxing strengths, while Makhachev is comfortable incorporating kicks and utilizing a dominant Thai clinch in his attacks.
Jack Thornley