Maddalena put the UFC welterweight championship on the line against Islam Makhachev last Saturday. Many expected Makhachev, a former lightweight champion, to face a tough test. Instead, he dominated the fight with his struggle to win UFC gold in a second weight class.
After the fight, Garry jumped on his X account to destroy Maddalena’s performance.
Sending m&ms and condolences to you, JDM, one of the weakest title defenses in UFC history. Your preparation seemed non-existent. pic.twitter.com/1nemG64IFi
— “The Future” Ian Machado Garry (@iangarryMMA) November 16, 2025
“Sending M&Ms and condolences to you JDM is one of the weakest title defenses in UFC history. Your preparation looked shoddy.”
Ahead of UFC 322, Maddalena was interviewed by Newsweek Sports. During the interview, Maddalena said he anticipated Makhachev’s strength to move up to the 170-pound division.
“Yes, I am,” said Maddalena. “That’s what I expect. A new division for him, but he’s probably cutting down a lot to get back to lightweight. I definitely feel like this will probably be better for him physically. I think he’ll be one of the stronger welterweights. I definitely expect him to be at the welterweight level in terms of strength.”
Ultimately, “JDM” could not find an answer to Makhachev’s struggle. The UFC 322 commentary team also noted that Maddalena appeared to be injured, but has not addressed that theory as of yet.
Garry is scheduled for his own fight against former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad on November 22. The fight will serve as the co-main event of UFC Qatar. Headlining the card will be a pivotal lightweight match between Arman Tsarukyan and Dan Hooker.
As for Makhachev, expect him to defend his welterweight title in the future. The newly minted 170-pound titleholder told reporters during the UFC 322 post-fight press conference that there are some intriguing challengers at welterweight. Makhachev has called for a fight against Kamaru Usman, but he is also aware of Michael Morales’ emphatic TKO win over Sean Brady.
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