According to a former UFC world champion, Jack Della Maddalena possesses the necessary mindset to overcome lightweight king Islam Makhachev.
Following a recent impressive performance, speculation is growing about a potential future clash between Della Maddalena and Makhachev. The Dagestani fighter`s coach has stated that his fighter is a vastly different challenge compared to previous opponents the Australian has faced.
Whittaker`s View on a Potential Matchup
UFC legend Robert Whittaker acknowledged that Islam Makhachev would pose a significantly tougher challenge to Jack Della Maddalena than past opponents.
Despite the increased difficulty, `The Reaper` expressed his belief that his countryman would still find a way to win.
Speaking in an interview, Whittaker discussed the uncertainties surrounding a potential move up in weight for Makhachev:
It is hard to try to get an accurate gauge on what it’s going to look like, not knowing how Islam is going to look when he moves up. That’s always the question everybody asks when anybody is moving up or down a division; there are so many unknowns involved.
He continued, suggesting Islam might surpass previous opponents like Belal Muhammad but maintained faith in Della Maddalena:
But saying that, I think Islam can do everything that Belal does, but way better. I thought Jack handily had the fight [against Belal in a previous bout], but it was a fight. I don’t think it’ll be an easy fight for Jack, but I believe in Jack; he’s got that X-factor, he’s got that hunger there.
Whittaker concluded by stating his strong belief in Jack`s potential:
Just like with Belal, just like with Gilbert Burns, I think he can do the impossible.
