As Islam Makhachev continues to dominate the UFC lightweight division with precision, grappling mastery, and calculated performances, few names have truly emerged as a legitimate threat to his throne. But a rising storm may be brewing — and it’s coming from down under.

Jack Della Maddalena, the Australian striking phenom, has been quietly climbing the welterweight ranks, but his unique skillset, mindset, and finishing ability have fans wondering: Could this be the future opponent who gives Makhachev real problems — perhaps even in a cross-division super fight?

The Rise of Jack Della Maddalena

Della Maddalena has gone from Contender Series standout to one of the most exciting and dangerous strikers in the UFC’s welterweight division. With crisp boxing, fight IQ beyond his years, and a ruthless finishing instinct, he has built an impressive win streak — often against tough, well-rounded opponents.

His timing, footwork, and calmness under pressure have drawn comparisons to elite strikers like Robbie Lawler, Max Holloway, and even Conor McGregor (in his prime). But what sets Jack apart is his adaptability and lack of fear.

“I don’t care who they put in front of me. I’m coming to fight,” he said in a post-fight interview. That attitude — combined with his skill — is what makes him so dangerous.

Why Makhachev Fans Should Be Concerned

Islam Makhachev is known for suffocating control, elite wrestling, and disciplined game plans. But even the most dominant champions eventually face someone who doesn’t play by their rules. Jack Della Maddalena might just be that guy.

Here’s why:

Elite Striking & Shot Selection
Jack doesn’t just throw — he places punches like a sniper. If Makhachev can’t close distance effectively, Jack could pick him apart.

Mental Toughness
Jack has shown he can survive tough fights and still find a way to win. That composure is vital against someone like Islam, who thrives on breaking his opponents’ spirit.

Growing Grappling Confidence
While he’s no Dagestani wrestler, Jack is clearly working on his takedown defense and ground skills — and he’s doing it quietly, effectively, and without fanfare.

Power and Precision
Fighters who have troubled Makhachev in the past — like Volkanovski — did so with pressure and clean shots. Jack has both.

Could This Be a Future Super Fight?

If Makhachev eventually moves up to welterweight — as many expect — a clash with Della Maddalena could be a blockbuster. It’s the classic MMA storyline: wrestler vs. striker, discipline vs. chaos, grind vs. explosion.

And given how quickly Jack is climbing, it’s not a matter of if he enters the top 5 — but when. UFC matchmakers surely have their eyes on the Australian as a future title challenger, perhaps even across divisions.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Sleep on Jack

Islam Makhachev is arguably the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world right now. But no reign lasts forever — and the names of future threats are often whispered before they’re shouted.

Jack Della Maddalena may not be in Makhachev’s division yet, but his style, confidence, and momentum should make any Makhachev fan a little uneasy. He’s young, violent, focused, and fearless — the perfect ingredients for a real challenge.