‘What a disappointment’: Ilia Topuria, Pros Rip Jack Della Maddalena for Loss to Islam Makhachev at UFC 322
NEW YORK – Islam Makhachev’s dominant performance against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 on Saturday night wasn’t the only talking point leaving Madison Square Garden. A chorus of fighters, led by featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, sharply criticized Della Maddalena’s showing in the one-sided defeat. Makhachev secured a unanimous decision victory, adding welterweight gold to his lightweight title adn becoming a two-division UFC champion.
The lackluster performance from Della Maddalena, who was widely considered a hazardous challenger, drew immediate and harsh reactions. Topuria, who has repeatedly called for a fight with Makhachev, was among the first to voice his disappointment, stating simply, “What a disappointment.” The criticism highlights the growing pressure on contenders to deliver compelling performances against elite fighters like Makhachev.
Makhachev controlled the fight from start to finish, utilizing his wrestling to repeatedly take Della Maddalena down and maintain top control throughout the five rounds. He now boasts a 16-fight win streak,tying Anderson Silva’s UFC record,and successfully defended his lightweight title four times prior to moving up to welterweight – another UFC record.
Several other fighters and analysts weighed in on social media, echoing the sentiment that Della Maddalena failed to capitalize on the prospect. The defeat raises questions about the Australian’s readiness for championship-level competition and the future of the welterweight division.
Check out how the pros reacted on social media below.
