UFC 322: Makhachev vs. Della Maddalena Headlines NYC Card

New York City is set to host one of the most anticipated events in mixed martial arts history this Saturday, as UFC 322 unfolds at Madison Square Garden. In the main event, former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev will challenge welterweight titleholder Jack Della Maddalena in a bid to claim belts in two divisions, while the co-main features flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko defending against former strawweight queen Zhang Weili.

Makhachev, a 34-year-old Dagestani fighter with a 27-1 record, enters the bout on a 15-fight winning streak that includes four successful lightweight title defenses. His victories over Alexander Volkanovski twice, Dustin Poirier, and Renato Moicano have solidified his status as one of the division's all-time greats. After vacating the 155-pound belt earlier this year, Makhachev has expressed confidence in his transition to welterweight, citing reduced stress from the weight cut and increased power. "The weight cut is less stress, less pressure for me," Makhachev said. "I will have more power, I feel it is going to be more comfortable." He anticipates a comprehensive test, planning to mix grappling with striking against Della Maddalena, whom he...