Khabib Nurmagomedov has stated that UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman poses a tougher challenge for lightweight champion Islam Makhachev than featherweight titleholder Alexander Volkanovski.
Speaking on July 24, 2025, Khabib highlighted Della Maddalena’s size, strength, boxing skills, and improved wrestling as critical factors in this matchup. Makhachev, who is aiming to become a two-division champion, faces a formidable opponent in the Australian fighter.
Khabib stated, “Jack Della Maddalena is the most difficult opponent Makhachev has ever faced.” He emphasised the Australians’ physical advantages and improvements in grappling, highlighting Della Maddalena’s ability to escape scrambles. With an unbeaten record of 8-0 In the UFC, Della Maddalena has strengthened his wrestling, which was previously considered a weakness, making him a well-rounded threat.
Khabib calls Jack Della Maddalena the toughest opponent of Islam Makhachev’s career. 😲🔥
"I think Jack is the toughest opponent of Islam's career. If I were preparing Islam for either Ilia or Jack, I’d be more concerned — and I am more concerned — about Jack."
(via… pic.twitter.com/gw707wx9xp
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) July 22, 2025Makhachev’s Two-Division Ambition
Islam Makhachev, with a 27-1 record and 15 consecutive UFC wins, has defended his lightweight title more times than any other in the division’s history. Instead of facing Topuria, who recently won the lightweight belt, Makhachev chose to move up to welterweight. He explained: “This is not about avoiding a challenge, but about earning a second UFC title.” A win could tie Anderson Silva’s record of 16 straight UFC victories.
Fans anticipated a Makhachev-Topuria clash, but Khabib downplayed Topuria’s threat compared to Della Maddalena. He said, “My concern would be greater for preparing Della Maddalena than Topuria.” This underscores the Australians’ unique skill set and physicality.
The potential Makhachev-Della Maddalena bout could redefine the welterweight division. Makhachev’s grappling dominance meets Della Maddalena’s striking and improved ground game, promising a thrilling matchup.
As Makhachev’s mentor, Khabib’s insights carry weight. His analysis adds excitement to the fight, with fans eager for confirmation of the matchup.
