Islam Makhachev is moving up to the welterweight division, vacating his lightweight title after dominating the competition. Now, he’s eyeing a shot at Jack Della Maddalena’s belt. As anticipation builds for this potential showdown, Maddalena’s head coach, Ben Vickers, has made a bold claim. Vickers stated that he’s thoroughly studied Makhachev’s fights and identified all of his weaknesses. Confident in his analysis, he believes they hold the key to destroying the former lightweight king.
Talking to Submission Radio, JDM’s head coach revealed he studied Islam Makhachev’s performance against Dustin Poirier during his flight back from Canada. While previously watching Makhachev only as a fan, he now sees openings that Jack can exploit. He believes Makhachev isn’t accustomed to absorbing damage or facing relentless pressure, and pointed out his past knockout loss. With that in mind, the coach expressed full confidence that Jack can finish the job with a knockout.
“Poirier only hit him once in the first round. I just feel like he’s not used to taking damage. He’s not used to being in tough fights with someone pushing the pace, and he’s been knocked out before. I feel very confident going into that fight,” he said.
Jack Della’s Head Coach Studied Makhachev vs. Poirier on the Flight Back from Canada✈️ — Here’s What He Said:
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) May 14, 2025
"I watched a bit of footage of Makhachev, in particular the Poirier fight. I've never watched Makhachev before as a potential opponent — I've just enjoyed him fighting… pic.twitter.com/VZgNVFZLrK
Javier Mendez Has Plan For Islam Makhachev Against JDM
Makhachev’s coach shared his thoughts on the game plan, suggesting that while ex-UFC Champ has the ability to both take Jack down and beat him on the feet, the smarter approach might be to focus on grappling a strategy he believes Belal should have relied on, and one he’s confident Islam will commit to. Makhachev possesses all the tools needed to succeed, and he’s consistently proven that he’s built differently from the rest.
His dominant performances have showcased his versatility, making pursuing a second championship not just a dream but a real possibility. With elite grappling, improved striking, and a high fight IQ, Makhachev stands as one of the few fighters capable of becoming a two-division UFC champion.
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Also Read: Ilia Topuria Mocks Islam Makhachev, Vows To Chase Lightweight Gold At UFC 317 In Bold New Claim
