After Alexander Volkanovski suffered two tough defeats against Islam Makhachev, another Australian fighter is stepping up, ready to avenge him: Jack Della Maddalena.
Volkanovski recently reclaimed the featherweight title (-66 kg) with a unanimous decision victory over Diego Lopes. Prior to that, he lost twice to Makhachev — once via decision after a strong showing, and again by a brutal head-kick knockout in the first round, taken on just ten days’ notice.
While a trilogy bout between Volk and Islam seems unlikely, Maddalena sees an opening. Speaking on Grin Reapers podcast, he said:
“That would be awesome. Especially if it happens in Perth. It’d be a revenge story for Volk. If I get past Belal, I think the chances are real.”
🏆👀 Jack Della Maddalena is open to the idea of facing Islam Makhachev for his first title defence at welterweight if he is successful at UFC 315.
Maddalena wants to fight Makhachev to avenge Alexander Volkanovski’s losses.
(via Grin Reapers / YT) pic.twitter.com/WAAzJqz7QN
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) April 19, 2025
Maddalena is set to face Belal Muhammad in the UFC 315 main event. If victorious, he will likely be the next contender for the welterweight title — a division Makhachev is also eyeing, although Belal is his teammate.
Maddalena also praised Volkanovski:
“In my opinion, he’s probably the greatest Australian athlete ever. I might be a little biased, but after his last win, he definitely deserves to be in that conversation.”
The message is clear: Revenge for Volk may come at the hands of Maddalena… if everything goes according to plan.
