Della Maddalena to Defend Title at Madison Square Garden
Australian welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena has been confirmed to headline UFC 322 at Madison Square Garden on November 15, 2025. He will face former lightweight king Islam Makhachev, who is moving up a division to challenge for the belt. The matchup marks Della Maddalena’s first title defense and continues his rapid rise as one of Australia’s most successful exports in mixed martial arts.
Haddon Joins Card After Injury Comeback
Joining his countryman on the New York card is bantamweight prospect Cody Haddon, who returns after a year sidelined by injuries. The Perth native earned his UFC contract through Dana White’s Contender Series and impressed in his debut before a series of setbacks. Haddon now faces American newcomer Malcolm Wellmaker in what he calls the biggest fight of his young career.
A Milestone Night for Australian MMA
The inclusion of two Australians on such a prestigious card underscores the nation’s growing influence in global MMA. With Della Maddalena defending a world title and Haddon representing the next wave of talent, UFC 322 is shaping up as a landmark event for Australian combat sports and a chance to showcase its fighters on one of the sport’s grandest stages.
