Following his loss to Carlos Prates, Jack Della Maddalena has weighed in on the welterweight title picture, suggesting that Shawn Garry deserves an opportunity to challenge Islam Makhachev for the welterweight championship. This statement reflects Della Maddalena's perspective on the division's hierarchy despite his recent setback. Garry has been building momentum in the welterweight ranks and appears to be in contention for a title shot. Della Maddalena's callout adds to the ongoing discussion about who should be next in line for a championship bout. The comment highlights the competitive nature of the welterweight division and the various contenders vying for their shot at gold.
Jack Della Maddalena has voiced his opinion on the welterweight title picture, stating that Ian Garry deserves a shot at the championship despite Della Maddalena himself coming off a loss to Carlos Prates.
The Australian sits at number four in the welterweight rankings at just 29 years old, carrying an 18-4 record and a reputation as one of the division's most aggressive strikers. Fighting out of Scrappy MMA, the six-foot-one switch-hitter lands an impressive 5.57 significant strikes per minute at 51 percent accuracy, making him one of the higher-volume punchers in the 170-pound weight class. His comments on the title picture carry weight given his position near the top of the division, even following his recent setback.
Welterweight champion Islam Makhachev holds a 28-1 record and is currently ranked the top pound-for-pound fighter in the world. The 34-year-old Russian, who trains with Eagles MMA, is a southpaw standing five-foot-ten with a 70-inch reach. Makhachev blends striking efficiency — landing at 58 percent accuracy — with elite grappling, averaging 3.2 takedowns and 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Della Maddalena's endorsement of Garry adds public pressure to matchmakers shaping the welterweight title queue
- A loss has temporarily set Della Maddalena back in contention, making his willingness to elevate a rival notable
- Makhachev's move to welterweight means the division's hierarchy is still being established, with multiple contenders angling for position
- The stylistic contrast between Makhachev's grappling-heavy approach and the striker-heavy welterweight contenders makes the next title challenger a compelling question
