In an exclusive interview with Telecomasia.net, former Bellator champion Andrey Koreshkov assessed the dynamics of the fight between Islam Makhachev and Jack Della Maddalena.
"Maddalena is really good. He can fight on his feet, and he’s great at it. Plus, being a southpaw, I don’t know how comfortable that will be for Makhachev. I’d say it’s a 50-50 matchup. However, Makhachev does have wrestling. It’s a question whether Maddalena can handle that, but Makhachev will have a less exhausting weight cut. Thus, he will have more stamina, but he won’t hold a power advantage or size superiority, as Maddalena is actually bigger. Plus, he has the advantage in reach," Koreshkov said.
It will be tough and uncomfortable for Makhachev in the stand up. He should look for his chance in wrestling. If he can take it to the ground, Islam will win with a 70-30 probability.
Recall that Islam Makhachev recently vacated his lightweight title. The Russian plans to fight for the welterweight title against Jack Della Maddalena, who recently claimed the title from Belal Muhammad. The matchup between Makhachev and Maddalena has not yet been officially announced.
