Five Rounds Cleared: Makhachev Secures UFC Welterweight Belt

In the world of MMA, few fighters can maintain a level of consistency, discipline, and tenacity like Islam Makhachev. And on a historic night at Madison Square Garden, New York, Sunday, November 16, 2025, the Dagestani fighter affirmed one thing: he is not done. In fact, he is just beginning a new chapter in his career.

UFC 322 wasn't just a welterweight title fight; it was a stage of proof for Makhachev. After shining in the lightweight division, many questioned whether the signature Dagestani fighting style would remain lethal in a heavier weight class. The answer? Five rounds of complete dominance.

A Hot Start to the Fight, But Makhachev Remained Calm

Jack Della Maddalena came with a reputation as one of the most explosive strikers in the welterweight division. In the first round, his aggression was immediately apparent. He tried to pressure Makhachev with the left-right combinations that were his trademark.

However, Makhachev didn't get drawn into Maddalena's game. Instead of standing too long, he kept his distance, read the timing, and waited for the right moment. That moment came quickly when he caught one of Maddalena's legs and took him down to the canvas, a signature Dagestani wrestling transition that instantly changed the fight's atmosphere.

Once on top, the duel belonged entirely to Makhachev. Maddalena was forced to defend under the pressure of grappling techniques that were nearly impossible to reverse. An arm triangle attempt was built, but Maddalena managed to survive until the bell.

A Grappling Clinic Round After Round

The second round told a new story; Makhachev appeared even more aggressive in his striking game. He landed combinations that forced Maddalena back before bringing the fight to a clinch against the octagon fence.

Maddalena momentarily tripped Makhachev's leg and took him down first, but like deja vu, the situation instantly reversed as Makhachev recovered his position faster.

Ground and pound once again became the primary weapon. Constant pressure for almost the entire second round meant Maddalena only got back to his feet with 10 seconds left. The time spent on the canvas took its toll; Maddalena's stamina began to deplete.

Entering the third round, the stand-up battle heated up again. Maddalena started trading punches more bravely in close quarters, but a small mistake was once again exploited by Makhachev, who caught his opponent's leg and took him down. Grappling dominance took over yet again.

The fourth round showcased another aspect of Makhachev: relentless low kicks, constant pressure, and full control. He even secured a position for a rear-naked choke, though he failed to finish it.

Maddalena Needed a Miracle, But Makhachev Was Too Solid

Entering the fifth round, Maddalena knew the only way to retain the belt was a finish. He opened the round with a hard right-hand swing, a desperado punch he had successfully used against other top fighters before.

But Makhachev had read it all. He easily took Maddalena down again, maintained control, and spent the remainder of the round with such stability that the judges had no room for doubt.

Finally, all three judges unanimously scored the fight 50-45 for Islam Makhachev. No round was questionable. No crucial moment made the fight feel close. All five rounds belonged entirely to Makhachev.

A Second Victory in a Different Weight Class

With this dominant victory, Islam Makhachev officially secured his second title in the UFC, after previously being the lightweight king. Not many fighters can become champions in two different divisions, and Makhachev now joins that elite list.

More importantly, he proved that Dagestani grappling techniques are not just effective in the lightweight division, but are also capable of conquering one of the toughest welterweights of this era.

After the fight, MMA analysts' reactions were largely uniform: Makhachev's dominance wasn't just a win, but a statement to the rest of the welterweight division.

With his adaptability, training discipline, and fight IQ, Islam Makhachev looks like a threat that won't disappear anytime soon.

One thing is certain: the new champion's era has just begun.