Islam Makhachev made history at UFC 322 as he steamrolled Jack Della Maddalena to claim welterweight gold and become a multi-division UFC champion.
While many expected Della Maddalena to give the formidable Dagestani a tough test on his maiden outing at 170lbs, the Australian succumbed to the sport’s pound-for-pound best in what was only his first title defence. He was shut out on the ground for the entire fight with the scorecards reading 50-45 in Makhachev’s favour across the board.
In the co-main event at Madison Square Garden, Zhang Weili emulated Makhachev by moving up a division but was dominated by flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko over five rounds, falling to a unanimous decision defeat at the hands of “Bullet”.
Elsewhere on the main card, British former welterweight champion Leon Edwards was knocked out in the UFC for the first time as Carlos Prates dealt him a third consecutive loss, while Benoit Saint Denis recorded the sixth fastest knockout in the promotion’s history over veteran Beneil Dariush.
Follow live updates and results from UFC 322 below, from the prelims to the main event.
UFC 322 live
- Islam Makhachev steamrolled Jack Della Maddalena to win welterweight title
- The Dagestani outclassed the Australian to become a multi-division UFC champion
- Valentina Shevchenko dominated Zhang Weili to retain flyweight title in super-fight
- Briton Leon Edwards slept by Carlos Prates in third consecutive loss
- Benoit Saint Denis produced sixth fastest knockout in UFC history over Beneil Dariush
Islam Makhachev trounces Jack Della Maddalena to earn multi-champion status at UFC 322
07:00 , Will CastleIslam Makhachev made easy work of Jack Della Maddalena to snatch his welterweight title and become a multi-division champions at UFC 322, achieving something his legendary coach and childhood friend Khabib Nurmagomedov never managed.
Makhachev steamrolled the Australian across five rounds in a bout that was nearly difficult to watch, with the 34-year-old’s systematic destruction of Della Maddalena’s right calf leaving the defending champion in visible agony for the championship rounds.
He was shut out for five straight rounds on the ground, with the scorecards reading 50-45 in Makhachev’s favour across the board.
Full report:
Makhachev trounces Della Maddalena to earn multi-champion status at UFC 322
Islam Makhachev schools Jack Della Maddalena to become two-weight champion
08:00 , Will Castle
Knockouts galore at UFC 322
07:45 , Will Castle
UFC 322 results in full
07:30 , Will Castle‘C’ denotes champion
Islam Makhachev def. Jack Della Maddalena (C) via unanimous decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45)
Valentina Shevchenko (C) def. Zhang Weili via unanimous decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45)
Michael Morales def. Sean Brady via first-round TKO (ground punches, 3:27)
Carlos Prates def. Leon Edwards via second-round knockout (straight jab, 1:28)
Benoit Saint Denis def. Beneil Dariush via first-round knockout (punches, 0:16)
Prelims
Bo Nickal def. Rodolfo Vieira via third-round knockout (head kick, 2:24)
Gregory Rodrigues def. Roman Kopylov (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
Erin Blanchfield def. Tracy Cortez via second-round submission (rear-naked choke, 4:44)
Ethyn Ewing def. Malcolm Wellmaker via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
Kyle Daukaus def. Gerald Meerschaert via first-round submission (D’Arce choke, 0:50)
Pat Sabatini def. Chepe Mariscal by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Fatima Kline def. Angela Hill by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
Baisangur Susurkaev def. Eric McConico by third-round knockout (punches, 1:38)
Matheus Camilo def. Viacheslav Borshchev by unanimous decision (30-27, 20-27, 29-28)
Islam Makhachev reacts to becoming a two-weight champion
07:15 , Will CastleA dream come true 👏
— UFC (@ufc) November 16, 2025
[ #VeChain #UFC322 | @MAKHACHEVMMA ] pic.twitter.com/NHpxyyCdkP
UFC 322 live: Islam Makhachev smiles with Khabib Nurmagomedov as he does what his legendary friend couldn't manage in UFC
06:45 , Will CastleAll smiles from the champ 💪
— UFC (@ufc) November 16, 2025
[ #VeChain #UFC322 | @MAKHACHEVMMA ] pic.twitter.com/ckOFQ8hEFV
UFC 322 live: Jack Della Maddalena roundly dominated in first title defence
06:21 , Will Castle
UFC 322 live: Islam Makhachev makes history become two-division champion
06:16 , Will Castle
UFC 322 live: Islam Makhachev wants next fight to be in White House
06:07 , Will CastleIslam Makhachev has just called for his first defence of the welterweight title to be in next summer’s White House card.
Especially after tonight, there are no shortage of contenders.
UFC 322 live: Islam Makhachev steamrolls Jack Della Maddalena to become two-division UFC champion
06:05 , Will Castle“This is the dream,” Islam Makhachev said. “All my life for these two belts. I am really happy. And the belts are so heavy and I like it.
“My life is changed, not cutting wait. I can wrestle, I can do anything. It was so easy.
“This is my play. It’s no secret. All of my opponents know this and nobody can stop.”
UFC 322 live: Jack Della Maddalena vs Islam Makhachev
05:59 , Will CastleThe scorecards are in...
Islam Makhachev def. Jack Della Maddalena via unanimous decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45)
ANDDDDDD NEWWWWW!
Islam Makhachev is a two-division champion in the UFC. History is made!
UFC 322 live: Jack Della Maddalena vs Islam Makhachev
05:58 , Will CastleWhen Jack Della Maddalena stopped Ramazan Emeev in June 2022, he passed what he described as the “Dagestani wrestler test”. He’s just faced the final boss of Dagestani wrestling tests - and succumbed to it.
UFC 322 live: Jack Della Maddalena vs Islam Makhachev
05:56 , Will CastleRound five
JDM is in absolute agony - whether it’s his calf or something else, he’s verging on tears as the fifth gets underway.
His corner pleaded him for take risks, but JDM doesn’t seem to have the capabilities to do so in this state. To the surprise of no-one, it doesn’t take long for Makhachev to get him to the ground again.
It’s more of the same from the Russian, who is about to become a two-division UFC champion. He goes for one more submission attempt, which to JDM’s credit he escapes again. But this has been outright domination.
There goes the buzzer! Bell to bell, a masterpiece from Islam Makhachev.
UFC 322 live: Jack Della Maddalena vs Islam Makhachev
05:51 , Will CastleRound four
Della Maddalena looks defeated as the fourth starts. He’s switched to orthodox because his right calf has been completely destroyed.
Makhachev is constantly feinting, preventing JDM from finding any kind of rhythm. He barely throws a punch before he gets taken down, again.
Della Maddalena is getting desperate - and that’s where you make mistakes. He loses his back and is getting smothered on the ground as Makhachev tries to lock in a rear-naked. He escapes that and resists the kimura, but this fight looks far out of his reach.
Makhachev’s ground control time is going on 14 minutes. Belal Muhammad barely got a sniff.
UFC 322 live: Jack Della Maddalena vs Islam Makhachev
05:44 , Will CastleRound three
JDM’s corner gives him a much-needed pep talk - telling him to keep his range in what is “the moment he’s been waiting for”.
The first minute stays on the feet, with JDM adhering to his corner’s advice. However, the biggest shots are being landed by Makhachev. Another huge calf kick has the Aussie hurting, causing a switch of stance.
Della Maddalena has his best moment of the fight as he rains in heavy punches from close range - but as Makhachev recreates distance, he succeeds with a perfect takedown. His hands were locked around the champion’s waist before JDM could react.
JDM is wincing as Makhachev goes through the gears on the ground. He’s trying to wear out the champion so he’ll make a mistake, allowing Makhachev to lock in a submission.
JDM is looking increasingly fatigued - but he does get out of the round.
UFC 322 live: Jack Della Maddalena vs Islam Makhachev
05:38 , Will CastleRound two
Just like the first, Makhachev begins the round with a punishing calf kick to JDM.
The champion needs to keep it on the feet - but even then, it’s not like Makhachev doesn’t know how to strike. He hits JDM with a high kick but Della Maddalena responds with a good shot of his own.
Makhachev then gets JDM against the fence and in the clinch, he tries to work his opponent to the ground. JDM makes the error of trying to step over and ends up on the mat - once again, Makhachev has top control.
Craig Jones is desperately shouting instructions to his man as Makhachev tries to capture the left arm for a choke.
With 30 seconds to go, Makhachev rains in clubbing elbows but JDM manages to regain his footing before the end of the round. A good way to end, but it’s 2-0 to the challenger.
UFC 322 live: Jack Della Maddalena vs Islam Makhachev
05:32 , Will CastleRound one
Makhachev opens up with a low leg kick but JDM follows up by charging at the Russian, throwing punches as Makhachev retreats! “You can’t wrestle when you’re going backwards,” says DC.
So much has been said about JDM’s ability to defend takedowns - but at the first attempt, Makhachev gets the champion to the ground with a single-leg!
This is early momentum for Makhachev, who has top control in half guard. JDM nearly gets up but in scrambling, Makhachev gets his back. The Aussie needs to be really careful with his neck now.
JDM manages to get Makhachev off his back, but the Dagestani is pummeling under with punches. He’s looking for the guillotine... but Della Maddalena avoids being submitted.
He ends the round flailing kicks at a grounded Makhachev - an illegal move, but Herb Dean issues nothing more than a warning.
UFC 322 live: Jack Della Maddalena vs Islam Makhachev
05:26 , Will CastleIntroductions are done. The fighters are ready. Gloves touched despite the distance between them at the face off.
Five rounds for the welterweight title... AND THIS ONE IS UNDERWAY!
UFC 322 live: Jack Della Maddalena vs Islam Makhachev
05:25 , Will CastleAn extra long “IT’S TIMEEEEEE” from Bruce Buffer gets the blood pumping, more than it already was.
Here come the fighters!
05:22 , Will CastleHuge reaction in MSG as Islam Makhachev makes his way to the cage. He’s earned the adulation of the fans as the sport’s pound-for-pound best.
And perhaps surprisingly, Jack Della Maddalena is on the end of more boos than cheers from the New York fans!
Safe to say they want to see Makhachev make history - but JDM has a legacy to write. Beating Makhachev, an all-time great, would be a defining moment.
This is a huge fight.
Jack Della Maddalena aims to pass a ‘test’ that may change the course of UFC history
05:16 , Will CastleWhen Jack Della Maddalena stopped Ramazan Emeev in June 2022, he passed what he described as the “Dagestani wrestler test”. Tonight, he faces the Islam Makhachev test – the final boss of Dagestani wrestler tests.
The incumbent welterweight champion is only in the embryonic stages of what he hopes will be a memorable title reign. Yet in his first defence, Dana White has fast-tracked him to a legacy fight. In imperious former lightweight king Makhachev, Della Maddalena has been tasked with overcoming a man three former champions have fallen at the feet of.
To call this bout make-or-break for the Australian’s career would be hyperbole; only a select class of fighters can call themselves world champions. But if he punctures Makhechev’s mystique at Madison Square Garden, sending him packing back to 155lb, “JDM” could become the three hottest letters in the UFC.
Preview by Will Castle:
Jack Della Maddalena aims to pass a ‘test’ that may change the course of UFC history
MAIN EVENT TIME!
05:13 , Will CastleLadies and gentlemen, it’s time for your main event!
Islam Makhachev will aim to outdo his coach and childhood friend, the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov, by winning a second UFC title.
Having given up the lightweight gold earlier this year – after breaking the title-defence record – Makhachev eyes the welterweight strap worn by Jack Della Maddalena, in what could be an intriguing main event clash.
Russia’s Makhachev, 34, has not lost in 10 years; his Australian opponent, 29, has not lost in nine. With both competitors having exhibited well-rounded games throughout their careers, the headline bout in New York City could go either way. “JDM” is considered to have an edge in the striking department, while Makhachev’s wrestling is as good as it gets in MMA.
This one could change the course of UFC history. Don’t move a muscle!
UFC 322 live: Valentina Shevchenko vs Zhang Weili
05:09 , Will CastleZhang Weili doesn’t confirm whether she’ll drop back to strawweight or stay at flyweight, but is in good spirits after defeat as she reassures her fans that she’s all good.
She does reveal she’ll be taking a break, ending her post-fight interview by saying “Zhang Weili always gets back up”.
UFC 322 live: Valentina Shevchenko vs Zhang Weili
05:06 , Will CastleValentina Shevchenko gives Zhang Weili her flowers despite such a dominant victory, calling the fight “the hardest challenge” and hailing the former strawweight champion’s punching power.
She namedrops Erin Blanchfield, Natalia Silva and even bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison as potential next opponents.
UFC 322 live: Valentina Shevchenko vs Zhang Weili
05:02 , Will CastleThe scorecards are in... AND STILL!
Valentina Shevchenko def. Zhang Weili via unanimous decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45)
A masterclass from the flyweight champion.
UFC 322 live: Valentina Shevchenko vs Zhang Weili
05:01 , Will CastleRound five
Zhang’s corner tell her she needs a finish to win this. They are right.
She commits early to closing the distance, throwing a body kick to overhand combo that Shevchenko largely avoids. Shevchenko tries to get in the underhooks but can only keep her in the clinch against the cage for 30 seconds.
Next time Zhang is caught in the clinch, however, Shevchenko succeeds in getting her down. With three minutes and Shevchenko in half mount, this feels over.
Commentary are no longer talking about the grappling nuances - all they’re discussing is where Shevchenko sits in the GOAT conversation. She’s definitely up there.
Back to her feet for the final seconds as Zhang kicks her legs from the ground, Shevchenko celebrates before the buzzer goes. We don’t need the judges to know who won this one!
UFC 322 live: Valentina Shevchenko vs Zhang Weili
04:54 , Will CastleRound four
Huge Shevchenko body kick hurts Zhang to start off the fourth. The champion is showing no signs of letting up.
Zhang then gets caught in the clinch and is rocked with three knees. Another frontkick to the body has Zhang wincing and backing up.
Shevchenko is looking for the big shots as she stuns Zhang with a left. Zhang, meanwhile, can’t get near her.
That’s until the former bantamweight champ throws a body kick that does connect. Shevchenko absorbs the impact and catches it, though, responding by taking her down.
Smashing short-shoulder strikes complement her control time to see out the round. Shevchenko is up 4-0.
UFC 322 live: Valentina Shevchenko vs Zhang Weili
04:49 , Will CastleBoth Makhachev and JDM appear on the screen ahead of tonight’s mammoth welterweight title main event. A bigger reaction for Makhachev - he’s the favourite in MSG.
UFC 322 live: Valentina Shevchenko vs Zhang Weili
04:47 , Will CastleRound three
Zhang needs a serious change of fortunes - but within 20 seconds of the third round, she comes inches away from a foot to her face. Shevchenko’s kicks feel like they come almost out of nowhere.
The Chinese fighter tries to respond by staying the aggressor, but once more, it’s Shevchenko who is succeeding at turning defence into offence - a spinning wheelkick thuds into her body.
Zhang does get some success up against the fence, landing an elbow in the clinch. Her corner is calling on her to ramp up the pressure with Shevchenko dodging her kicks, but as she gets caught with the underhooks, we know where the fight is going: to the ground.
That’s where the round ends. Still no real answer from Zhang, who surely needs a finish to win this.
UFC 322 live: Valentina Shevchenko vs Zhang Weili
04:41 , Will CastleRound two
Zhang is told not to rush in by her corner. The two biggest shots she’s taken came as a result of charging towards Shevchenko like a bull.
After getting another counter left through, Shevchenko works Zhang to the ground. Her size and reach advantage are proving pivotal at the moment.
Shevchenko is chipping away at Zhang’s resilience, wearing her out as she tries to get into a crucifix position. She gets it briefly and while she can’t lock in a submission, her ground dominance is remarkable.
She lays in ground and pound to further shut Zhang out in the second round. It’s been all Shevchenko for 10 minutes.
UFC 322 live: Valentina Shevchenko vs Zhang Weili
04:36 , Will CastleBig cheer as Islam Makhachev appears on the screen. His bout is next after this.
UFC 322 live: Valentina Shevchenko vs Zhang Weili
04:35 , Will CastleRound one
HERE WE GO!
Zhang looks to find her range early doors as she throws jabs, keeping Shevchenko from closing the distance. She connects with a jab but the champ responds with a sharp body kick that echoes around MSG.
Shevchenko is keeping on the outside, staying cautious. And as Zhang charges in, she knocks her to the ground with a MASSIVE knee to the body!
A spell of scrambling on the mat ensues before they return to the feet. Zhang charges once more and AGAIN Shevchenko hurts her on the counter, this time with a spinning backfist!
Back to the ground it goes for the remainder of the round, with Shevchenko having top control. A great start for the champion.
UFC 322 live: Valentina Shevchenko vs Zhang Weili
04:28 , Will CastleBoth women make their walks to the cage with the adulation of MSG. Two bona fide legends of the sport are finally about to square off.
Bruce Buffer belts out his spiel as only he can for a fight of this magnitude.
Five rounds booked in for the UFC women’s flyweight title. It’s TIMEEEEEE!
Looking to prove she's the best once again 😤
— UFC (@ufc) November 16, 2025
[ #VeChain #UFC322 | @BulletValentina ] pic.twitter.com/Vu3DXJ3GdC
UFC 322 live: Valentina Shevchenko vs Zhang Weili
04:20 , Will CastleIt’s co-main event time at Madison Square Garden!
Zhang Weili emulates main-event attraction Islam Makhachev by moving up a division and eyeing more gold as the Chinese star, having vacated the women’s strawweight belt to end her second reign, goes after Valentina Shevchenko’s flyweight title in a true super-fight.
Shevchenko is the queen of women’s flyweight - she’s featured in 12 of the 13 title fights in the division, winning 10, losing one and drawing one. Will her reign fall to Zhang?
This is going to be special. Don’t go anywhere!
Event of the year?
04:14 , Will CastleThis has been breathless. UFC 322’s main card has seen three fights, three INSANE knockouts. If you’re hear for violence, you’re getting it.
And we’ve got the two title fights to come. I LOVE THIS SPORT!
UFC 322 live: Sean Brady vs Michael Morales
04:12 , Will Castle“Hey Dana, I need belt!”
Looking directly at the UFC president, that message has been sent loud and clear by Michael Morales.
STILL UNDEFEATED 😤@MichaellMMA adds another impressive performance to his resume! #VeChain #UFC322 pic.twitter.com/GosCY2SKMw
— UFC (@ufc) November 16, 2025
UFC 322 live: Sean Brady vs Michael Morales
04:10 , Will CastleWelterweight is being taken over by ruthless strikers. First Prates, now Morales.
Here’s the official result:
Michael Morales def. Sean Brady via first-round TKO (ground punches, 3:27)
At 25 years old, the Ecuadorian is 19-0. He looks like a future champion if I’ve ever seen one. The real deal!
UFC 322 live: Sean Brady vs Michael Morales
04:07 , Will CastleRound one
Here we go. Elite grappler against devastating striker. Who will nullify who?
Morales has a very low stance but an unbelievably long reach. He’s keeping Brady at a distance as he connects with the jab.
He suddenly rocks Brady, who retreats! Morales rains in punches on the American - he is in a real problem here.
Brady is now bleeding, who keeps succumbing to Morales’ stabbing jabs. A big overhand right connects on the temple, before a combo finally knocks him down! AND THAT’LL DO IT!
UFC 322 live: Sean Brady vs Michael Morales
03:59 , Will CastleWith Prates staking his claim for a title shot, now comes another welterweight title eliminator of sorts as Sean Brady takes on Michael Morales.
Brady beat Leon Edwards in his last outing, dominating the Brit in front of his opponent’s home crowd to stamp his mark as a top contender.
If he gets through undefeated Ecuadorian star Morales tonight - who last knocked out Gilbert Burns - he will surely be next in line to fight either Islam Makhachev or Jack Della Maddalena for welterweight gold.
UFC 322 live: Leon Edwards vs Carlos Prates
03:53 , Will CastleLeon Edwards lost his title. He lost his follow-up fight. He’s now been knocked up. Where does he go from here?
He's a nightmare to deal with 😮💨@TheNightmare170 gets the finish in round two! pic.twitter.com/uo6Kvm3Jjs
— UFC (@ufc) November 16, 2025
UFC 322 live: Leon Edwards vs Carlos Prates
03:51 , Will CastleJoe Rogan dons a pair of Prates’ trademark glasses for the post-fight interview.
He says: “Maybe I’ll be back here in an hour to do a face-off against the champ, let’s go!”
As the first man in the UFC to knock out Leon Edwards, he may well have a claim for a shot at the gold!
UFC 322 live: Leon Edwards vs Carlos Prates
03:48 , Will CastleThe power and precision of Prates to get through the guard and send Edwards off his feet. The Brit’s eyes were rolling back in his head.
There’s been back and forth between these two - not surprised Prates left in a hammerfist for good measure. Not sure it was super necessary.
Carlos Prates def. Leon Edwards via second-round knockout (straight jab, 1:28)
UFC 322 live: Leon Edwards vs Carlos Prates
03:45 , Will CastleRound two
Prates was frustrated by Edwards’ grappling approach in the first round, as were the crowd. No wonder he forces Edwards to stand in front of him as the second gets underway.
He’s clipping Edwards with rights, lefts, all while talking trash in his face. Then BANG! A huge left jab flatlines Edwards! And it’s OVER!
UFC 322 live: Leon Edwards vs Carlos Prates
03:43 , Will CastleRound one
And we’re off! Early strategy sees both fighters chopping the wood as they grow into the fight, with Edwards making the first significant move.
He goes for the double leg and while he doesn’t get him down, he gets into the clinch against the cage. Edwards is dangerous here - he can do serious damage with clinch strikes.
However, he doesn’t this time. He does nothing against the fence, so much so that Keith Peterson steps in and separates. Prates then stuns Edwards with a stiff knee, but Rocky responds with a superb overhand to takedown combo.
Edwards gets the back, and he’s not letting go. He sticks to Prates like glue, goes for a late rear-naked attempt as the 10-second slapper goes, but can’t lock it in.
UFC 322 live: Leon Edwards vs Carlos Prates
03:37 , Will CastleHere come the fighters.
Prates is the crowd favourite, with Edwards receiving boos from the New York crowd.
His appeal hasn’t exactly translated across the pond, but lest we forget - this man went on a eight-year undefeated streak and dethroned Kamaru Usman, who at times looked invincible as welterweight champ.
This boy is talented. Let’s see if he can deliver his best again tonight.
UFC 322 live: Leon Edwards vs Carlos Prates
03:32 , Will CastleIt’s Rocky time, baby!
Former welterweight champ and Birmingham’s own Leon Edwards gets back in the cage to fight rising Brazilian star Carlos Prates.
Edwards lost his title last summer to Belal Muhammad and is now on a two-fight losing streak, falling short against Sean Brady at UFC London earlier this year.
Taking on a dangerous striker in Prates, this seems like a more favourable fight stylistically for Edwards. If he has any aspirations of regaining the gold, this is a must-win.
UFC 322 live: Beneil Dariush vs Benoit Saint Denis
03:29 , Will CastleSaint Denis, a former special forces soldier in France, pays tribute to those who have served their country in his post-fight interview before touching on his title aspirations.
“You know what I’m chasing. I’m on a really good run and the lightweight belt, I’m chasing it,” he says. “I will do whatever the UFC tells me to do.”
UFC 322 live: Beneil Dariush vs Benoit Saint Denis
03:26 , Will CastleThat was the sixth fastest knockout in UFC history. Here’s the official result:
Benoit Saint Denis def. Beneil Dariush via first-round knockout (punches, 0:16)
Dariush was complaining, but as Bruce Buffer announces the result, he still looks lost. A clubbing blow leaves the veteran seeing stars. WHAT A START TO THE NIGHT!
UFC 322 live: Beneil Dariush vs Benoit Saint Denis
03:23 , Will CastleRound one
Here we go. Dariush has Saint Denis stumbling with a leg kick out of the gate, but BANG! One punch from Saint Denis in the clinch and DARIUSH IS DOWN AND OUT!
Saint Denis is on the cage and signalling for belt. That took 16 seconds. WOW!
UFC 322 live: Beneil Dariush vs Benoit Saint Denis
03:17 , Will CastleLet’s get into the main card, shall we?
We kick things off at lightweight as Beneil Dariush goes to war with the ever-rugged Benoit Saint Denis.
Dariush, while boasting the experience edge, also has an unplanned weight advantage for tonight’s bout - he tipped the scales at 157.2lbs, missing the lightweight cutoff and will thus forfeit 20 percent of his purse.
Former French special forces soldier Saint Denis, meanwhile, is back on track after losing to Renato Moicano at UFC Paris, winning twice since then. He’ll hope to make a statement against the veteran Dariush and move into the top 10.
Jack Della Maddalena aims to pass ‘test’ that may change course of UFC history
03:11 , Will CastleWhen Jack Della Maddalena stopped Ramazan Emeev in June 2022, he passed what he described as the “Dagestani wrestler test”. Tonight, he faces the Islam Makhachev test – the final boss of Dagestani wrestler tests.
The incumbent welterweight champion is only in the embryonic stages of what he hopes will be a memorable title reign. Yet in his first defence, Dana White has fast-tracked him to a legacy fight. In imperious former lightweight king Makhachev, Della Maddalena has been tasked with overcoming a man three former champions have fallen at the feet of.
To call this bout make-or-break for the Australian’s career would be hyperbole; only a select class of fighters can call themselves world champions. But if he punctures Makhechev’s mystique at Madison Square Garden, sending him packing back to 155lb, “JDM” could become the three hottest letters in the UFC.
Preview by Will Castle:
Jack Della Maddalena aims to pass a ‘test’ that may change the course of UFC history
UFC 322 prelim results
03:09 , Will CastleJust joining us? Here’s a rundown of all the results from the UFC 322 prelims:
Bo Nickal def. Rodolfo Vieira via third-round knockout (head kick, 2:24)
Gregory Rodrigues def. Roman Kopylov (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
Erin Blanchfield def. Tracy Cortez via second-round submission (rear-naked choke, 4:44)
Ethyn Ewing def. Malcolm Wellmaker via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
Kyle Daukaus def. Gerald Meerschaert via first-round submission (D’Arce choke, 0:50)
Pat Sabatini def. Chepe Mariscal by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Fatima Kline def. Angela Hill by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
Baisangur Susurkaev def. Eric McConico by third-round knockout (punches, 1:38)
Matheus Camilo def. Viacheslav Borshchev by unanimous decision (30-27, 20-27, 29-28)
UFC 322 main card: JDM defends welterweight gold against Makhachev
03:06 , Will Castle‘C’ denotes champion
Jack Della Maddalena (C) vs Islam Makhachev (welterweight title)
Valentina Shevchenko (C) vs Zhang Weili (women’s flyweight title)
Sean Brady vs Michael Morales (welterweight)
Leon Edwards vs Carlos Prates (welterweight)
Beneil Dariush vs Benoit Saint-Denis (lightweight)
UFC 322 main card on the way!
03:04 , Will CastleThat’s a wrap for the UFC 322 prelims - time for the main card!
We’ve got a stacked night on the way, culminating in tonight’s massive welterweight title clash between the imperious Islam Makhachev and defending champion Jack Della Maddalena.
And in tonight’s co-main event at Madison Square Garden, Zhang Weili emulates Makhachev by moving up a division and eyeing more gold; the Chinese star, having vacated the women’s strawweight belt to end her second reign, goes after Valentina Shevchenko’s flyweight title in a true super-fight.
We’ll have all the action, right here. Don’t go anywhere!
UFC 322 live: Bo Nickal vs Rodolfo Vieira
03:01 , Will CastleThat was brutal. The perfect finish to his best UFC performance. Here’s the official decision:
Bo Nickal def. Rodolfo Vieira via third-round knockout (head kick, 2:24)
“I’ve lost a lot since I was young but I always bounce back because I live for this, it’s the most fun job in the world,” Nickal said, returning to the win column tonight off the back of his first MMA loss.
He then says he can’t swear as he’s on ESPN, but goes on to say: “Frick you motherfrickers. You boo me then cheer me. Figure it out, you either love me or hate me.”
Yes, he said that. I’m not censoring him.
UFC 322 live: Bo Nickal vs Rodolfo Vieira
02:55 , Will CastleRound three
Nickal is in control and doesn’t feel the need to be the aggressor. Every time Vieira comes forward, he’s popped by the jab - leading to a bit of a standoff between the two for the first half of the third round.
The crowd are booing. Then BANG! A HUGE HEADKICK, and it’s LIGHTS OUT for Vieira!
Nickal celebrates by flipping off the crowd. Message sent.
UFC 322 live: Bo Nickal vs Rodolfo Vieira
02:51 , Will CastleRound two
Better from Vieira to start the second. A nice right hand is followed by a sharp inside leg kick. Nickal responds by echoing a body kick around MSG before landing a combination.
He’s feinting a lot more and leaving Vieira guessing when attacks will come. Nickal’s speed advantage is evident, just chipping away at his opponent with jabs. It’s cutting Vieira’s face up.
Vieira goes for the level change, shooting for the double leg which is well defended by seasoned wrestler Nickal. Up against the cage, it’s a great chance to get Nickal to the ground by the opportunity goes awry.
Still on the feet, Nickal stuns Vieira with another left. The left side of his face is now completely bloodied, his eye closing up. But we’re going to a third round!
UFC 322 live: Bo Nickal vs Rodolfo Vieira
02:44 , Will CastleRound one
Here we go! As Nickal’s introduction is met by boos from the New York crowd, it’s clear he could do with an eye-catching display.
And that’s what he’s going for! A huge pick-up slam by Nickal sees Vieira piledriven to the ground before eating knee after knee against the cage. Nickal looks like a man on a mission.
Vieira tries to turn aggressor but it nearly goes very badly from him as Nickal catches him in a choke. He just about escapes before being caught with an elbow as the two separate.
Vieira has been cut open - his two significant strikes compare to Nickal’s 20 with just over a minute to go. But he survives the round.
The “USA! USA! USA!” chants indicate Nickal might have won over the crowd.
UFC 322 live: Bo Nickal vs Rodolfo Vieira
02:36 , Will CastleTime for tonight’s featured prelim!
Highly-touted wrestler Bo Nickal is back in action off the back of a humbling TKO defeat to Reinier De Ridder - his first loss as a pro.
The UFC clearly have big hopes for the four-time All American, but he’ll need to produce a big performance tonight to start to convince the wider fighting fandom of his supposed superstar potential.
UFC 322 live: Roman Kopylov vs Gregory Rodrigues
02:32 , Will CastleThe scorecards are in!
Gregory Rodrigues def. Roman Kopylov (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
The result we were expecting - maybe a bit harsh from two of the judges to not give Kopylov the third round, but the winner was never in doubt.
Surely that has earned a place in the rankings for “Robocop”.
UFC 322 live: Roman Kopylov vs Gregory Rodrigues
02:30 , Will CastleRound three
“Robocop” is looking for more of the same in this third and final round - but suddenly, things don’t look so comfortable!
A SHARP left hook crosses the face of Rodrigues, sending the Brazilian back and wobbling! Now it’s Kopylov throwing the bombs, with Rodrigues on the back foot.
Kopylov has a good spell where he’s controlling the centre - but as is Rodrigues’ power, one good left sends him backwards. A chance to shift the tide of the round back in the Brazilian’s favour, who is fatiguing.
With less than a minute left, Kopylov has to go for broke. He sees a quick headkick well blocked and a last-gasp spinning elbow doesn’t produce the buzzer-beater KO he would’ve dreamt of.
To the judges we go...
UFC 322 live: Roman Kopylov vs Gregory Rodrigues
02:23 , Will CastleRound two
Rodrigues’ power is really dangerous. Every punch he’s landing, he’s sending Kopylov backwards. But it’s nearly his submission game that wins him the fight, catching Kopylov in a leg lock only to see the Russian scramble out!
Chants of “Robocop! Robocop!” are ringing around MSG. Rodrigues is controlling the centre of the Octagon and is busting up Kopylov’s face. He has blood dripping down his left eye.
A huge right cracks Kopylov and Rodrigues smells blood. He sneaks in a headkick and Kopylov is just about surviving. The Russian makes it out the second - he needs a huge third.
UFC 322 live: Roman Kopylov vs Gregory Rodrigues
02:17 , Will CastleRound one
We all know fighters don’t enter the same ring at the weight they hit the scales. But bloody nora, Gregory Rodrigues is massive. We’re off.
First shots are fired by Robocop, who pushes forward and clips Kopylov with a right. And another, sending Kopylov a step back.
He switches the levels, landing a sweet body kick before shooting for takedown. It’s defended by Kopylov, who produces his biggest shot of the round with a sharp hook to the body.
More heavy strikes land from the Brazilian, connecting with a knee after echoing an inside low kick around MSG, but as he goes for another takedown, it’s brilliantly reversed by Kopylov to take top control.
Kopylov doesn’t want to fight on the ground. The first ends with him on his feet and Rodrigues on his back.
UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili congratulates debutant Ethyn Ewing
02:09 , Will CastleEthyn Ewing fought eight days before his UFC debut tonight. He took his fight against the undefeated Malcolm Wellmaker on 40 hours notice. And he only put on a clinic.
He’s grabbed the attention of bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili, who has justifiably given him his flowers. Who knows - maybe they’ll end up sharing the cage?
Congratulations Ethyn Ewing what a debut 🦾⚔️
— Merab “The Machine” Dvalishvili (@MerabDvalishvil) November 16, 2025
UFC 322 live: Roman Kopylov vs Gregory Rodrigues
02:06 , Will CastleTo middleweight we go, and this should be a banger.
Two striking specialists in Russia’s Roman Kopylov and Gregory “Robocop” Rodrigues square off, both looking for another KO to add to their highlight reel.
Each man charges hard and punches harder. I’d be surprised if this goes the distance!
UFC 322 live: Erin Blanchfield vs Tracy Cortez
02:02 , Will CastleA statement from Erin Blanchfield, who could well have forced herself into the title picture. Here’s the official result:
Erin Blanchfield def. Tracy Cortez via second-round submission (rear-naked choke, 4:44)
“I’m feeling amazing,” she said. “I’m happy to be fighting on the same card as Valentina Shevchenko and Zhang Weili and I’m definitely going to be looking at that fight.”
UFC 322 live: Erin Blanchfield vs Tracy Cortez
01:58 , Will CastleRound two
Cortez was cut by the late combo from Blanchfield and as such, she opts to take the fight to the ground. Would’ve thought it would be the other way round after the first.
She succeeds with the takedown as the pair grapple on the mat. In the clinch, it’s Blanchfield who gets Cortez up against the cage before separating.
Good kicks to the body by Cortez, but Blanchfield responds by securing a takedown. This is where she wants to be.
A submission specialist, she has top position and goes for a choke. Cortez looks in trouble for a moment but survives - for now.
Back on the feet, Blanchfield wastes no time charging Cortez back down and bringing her to the mat with a double leg. And after getting the back, she locks in the choke and Cortez TAPS!
UFC 322 live: Erin Blanchfield vs Tracy Cortez
01:51 , Will CastleRound one
And we’re off! Blanchfield was 19 when she first fought Cortez - she squares off with the Brazilian again at 26, aiming for revenge.
Nice combo from Cortez to start things off as the pair try to find their distance. They trade jabs before Cortez lands a good counter left.
One-two to the head from Blanchfield is met by a knee to the body from Cortez. The Brazilian then lands another combo - she’s winning this fight on the feet at the moment.
Blanchfield, surprisingly, hasn’t gone for a takedown yet. And every time she comes forward, she’s getting caught by Cortez’s right.
She starts to find her range late in the round, landing a nice right at the end, but doubt it was enough to flip how the judges scored the first.
UFC 322 live: Erin Blanchfield vs Tracy Cortez
01:42 , Will CastleNext up, it’s a clash with potentially huge ramifications on the women’s flyweight division as Erin Blanchfield takes on Tracy Cortez.
Blanchfield will be going for revenge, having been edged out in a close decision loss to Cortez in their first bout six years ago.
Flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko - who is in action later on in a superfight co-main against Zhang Weili - might just have an eye on this one...
UFC 322 live: Malcolm Wellmaker vs Ethyn Ewing
01:36 , Will CastleThe scorecards are in...
Ethyn Ewing def. Malcolm Wellmaker via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
On two days notice, Ewing outclasses Wellmaker to take away his zero and stamp his mark in the UFC! One to watch at bantamweight.
UFC 322 live: Malcolm Wellmaker vs Ethyn Ewing
01:33 , Will CastleRound three
These two are setting the tone alright. Let’s see if the third can keep up the pace.
Wellmaker starts on the offensive, landing a great body kick, but once more it’s the counter combos of Ewing that are making the big impression here.
The pair then spend a minute or so clinching by the fence before Ewing’s punch connects again as space is created.
Ewing is feeling himself. As the fight enters its final minute, he defends a takedown before getting back to his feet and connecting with a fantastic knee. One more takedown for good measure, and that was some debut from Ewing.
We go to the scorecards...
UFC 322 live: Malcolm Wellmaker vs Ethyn Ewing
01:28 , Will CastleRound two
Ewing is chipping away at Wellmaker, throwing big combinations and not giving his opponent much of a chance to grow into this round.
There’s the worry that he might gas given how much he’s throwing, but Ewing is clearly a very talented striker. No wonder, given this fight got booked off a first-round KO he produced last week.
Wellmaker, bleeding heavily for his left eye, responds with a flurry of his own, closing the distance and getting Ewing up to the cage. But Ewing’s sharp counters are landing. One right, then another - he’s doing the more damage.
Wellmaker is still pressing forward. A big body shock is absorbed my Ewing, who then eats a spinning elbow and responds with a massive hook to end to finish the second!
What a fight!
UFC 322 live: Malcolm Wellmaker vs Ethyn Ewing
01:21 , Will CastleRound one
Ewing looks confident for his debut in the promotion, pressing Wellmaker only to feel the wrath of his counter - a STIFF right hook that rocks the UFC new boy!
He survives and doesn’t let that faze him, still acting as the aggressor as he charges in with the combo. The pair then get into the clinch, trading elbows, before Ewing produces a great takedown.
Ewing ends the first with Wellmaker in a headlock, delivering knees to his skull. Both men had their moments in that. We’ve got a fight on our hands.
UFC 322 live: Malcolm Wellmaker vs Ethyn Ewing
01:12 , Will CastleWe look to featherweight for our regular prelims opener tonight as Malcolm Wellmaker takes on UFC debutant Ethyn Ewing.
Wellmaker is undefeated at 10-0 and beat cult favourite Kris Moutinho in his last outing.
Taking away his zero would be some scalp for Ewing, who took this fight on short notice and, astonishingly, last fought EIGHT DAYS ago.
These two usually fight at bantamweight - but given how quickly this was taken together, it’s been booked at 145lbs.
Highlights of the night so far
01:04 , Will CastleWhat a right hand from Baisangur Susurkaev 😮💨
— UFC (@ufc) November 15, 2025
He puts an end to this one in round 3! #VeChain #UFC322 pic.twitter.com/nRHBIRSVSu
Wasted no time tonight 🚨@KyleDaukaus gets the stoppage EARLY in round one! #VeChain #UFC322 pic.twitter.com/FZEdfbfNoK
— UFC (@ufc) November 16, 2025
UFC 322 early prelims results
01:02 , Will CastleWe’ve already had a few fights enter the books - here’s everything that’s gone down so far:
Kyle Daukaus def. Gerald Meerschaert via first-round submission (D’Arce choke, 0:50)
Pat Sabatini def. Chepe Mariscal by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Fatima Kline def. Angela Hill by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
Baisangur Susurkaev def. Eric McConico by third-round knockout (punches, 1:38)
Matheus Camilo def. Viacheslav Borshchev by unanimous decision (30-27, 20-27, 29-28)
Hello, hello!
01:00 , Will CastleGood afternoon, good evening or good morning - welcome to the UFC 322 prelims!
We’ve got one hell of a night of fights lined up for you, culminating with the imperious Islam Makhachev’s bid to become a two-weight champion against welterweight king Jack Della Maddalena.
But to whet the appetite, we have four prelim bouts on the way. They are:
Bo Nickal vs Rodolfo Vieira (middleweight)
Roman Kopylov vs Gregory Rodrigues (middleweight)
Erin Blanchfield vs Tracy Cortez (women’s flyweight)
Malcolm Wellmaker vs Ethyn Ewing (featherweight)
UFC 322 regular prelims incoming
00:55 , Alex PattleOkay, time to leave you in the capable hands of Will Castle!
He’ll give you a round-up of the early-prelim results in a few moments, before diving into regular-prelim updates.
It all builds towards a stacked main card later, including two title fights...
Enjoy!
Della Maddalena vs Makhachev – form guide
00:50 , Alex PattleHere are Della Maddalena and Makhachev’s last five results, respectively:
Della Maddalena
def. Belal Muhammad via decision (May ‘25)
def. Gilbert Burns via 1st-round TKO (March ‘24)
def. Kevin Holland via decision (Sep ‘23)
def. Bassil Hafez via decision (July ‘23)
def. Randy Brown via 1st-round sub (Feb ‘23)
Makhachev
def. Renato Moicano via 1st-round sub (Jan ‘25)
def. Dustin Poirier via 5th-round sub (June ‘24)
def. Alex Volkanovski via 1st-round KO (Oct ‘23)
def. Alex Volkanovski via decision (Feb ‘23)
def. Charles Oliveira via 2nd-round sub (Oct ‘22)
Della Maddalena survives weigh-in scare ahead of Makhachev fight
00:46 , Alex PattleThe main event of UFC 322 was made official on Friday morning, but only after a weigh-in scare for Della Maddalena.
As Makhachev prepares to fight at 170lb for the first time, the Russian made championship weight ahead of tonight’s showdown in New York City.
However, Della Maddalena took to the scales much later in the morning, and when he did, the Australian came in at 170.4lb.
But after removing his shorts and weighing in behind a curtain, the champion was listed at 169.8lb.
Della Maddalena aims to pass ‘test’ that may change course of UFC history
00:32 , Alex PattleWhen Jack Della Maddalena stopped Ramazan Emeev in June 2022, he passed what he described as the “Dagestani wrestler test”. Tonight, he faces the Islam Makhachev test – the final boss of Dagestani wrestler tests.
The incumbent welterweight champion is only in the embryonic stages of what he hopes will be a memorable title reign. Yet in his first defence, Dana White has fast-tracked him to a legacy fight. In imperious former lightweight king Makhachev, Della Maddalena has been tasked with overcoming a man three former champions have fallen at the feet of.
To call this bout make-or-break for the Australian’s career would be hyperbole; only a select class of fighters can call themselves world champions. But if he punctures Makhechev’s mystique at Madison Square Garden, sending him packing back to 155lb, “JDM” could become the three hottest letters in the UFC.
Preview by Will Castle:
Jack Della Maddalena aims to pass a ‘test’ that may change the course of UFC history
Former JDM opponent lifts lid on champion’s ‘special’ qualities
00:16 , Alex PattleOur own Will Castle, who will be taking over our live coverage when the regular prelims begin, chatted to one of “JDM”’s former opponents ahead of tonight’s main event.
Danny Roberts faced Della Maddalena three years ago to the month, falling to a first-round knockout by the now-champ.
“It was amazing to get in there, and I knew from the second we started throwing hard: ‘This is a good kid,’” the Briton told The Independent.
“You know your levels. I’ve had X amount of fights in the UFC, I know what it is when I get in there with someone – I know their level, their skillset, their potential – and I knew he was going to be great.”
Full interview:
Former opponent lifts lid on ‘special’ JDM ahead of Islam Makhachev test
How to watch UFC 322 tonight
00:11 , Alex PattleIn the UK, UFC 322 will air live on TNT Sports 1. It can also be purchased via Discovery+, EE TV, Virgin Media, Amazon Prime Video, and Sky Sports. The prelims will also stream live on UFC Fight Pass.
In the US, ESPN+ will stream the main card on pay-per-view. ESPN+ will also stream the prelims to its subscribers, as will UFC Fight Pass.
Makhachev details unusual preparation for Della Maddalena showdown
00:00 , Alex PattleIslam Makhachev this week revealed his unusual preparation for tonight’s fight with Jack Della Maddalena.
In a bid to be as prepared as possible for his clash with the Australian, who has not lost in nine years, Makhachev broke his training into three distinct sections.
“I did like three camps,” the Russian, who is unbeaten in 10 years, told the Weighing In podcast on Monday. “One of them in Russia, one of them in Dubai, and the last one in New Jersey.
“First camp, I just focused [on doing] weights, to gain weight. I did like three weeks’ camp. After that, we moved to Dubai, and we did a lot of sparring, wrestling, more conditioning, you know?
“Now we’re in New Jersey, and I have my sparring partner who can do similar [techniques] to JDM.”
More here:
Islam Makhachev details unusual preparation for Jack Della Maddalena showdown
UFC 322 odds: Main event and co-main
Saturday 15 November 2025 23:38 , Alex PattleDella Maddalena – 21/10; Makhachev – 4/11
Shevchenko – 20/21; Zhang – 5/6
Get all the latest UFC betting sites’ offers.
The Independent vets betting sites for usability, security and responsible gambling tools. You can claim free bets here to use across a range of sports. Please read the terms.
UFC 322 prelims: Bo Nickal, Tracy Cortez ones to watch
Saturday 15 November 2025 23:20 , Alex PattleRegular prelims
Bo Nickal vs Rodolfo Vieira (middleweight)
Roman Kopylov vs Gregory Rodrigues (middleweight)
Erin Blanchfield vs Tracy Cortez (women’s flyweight)
Malcolm Wellmaker vs Ethyn Ewing (featherweight)
Early prelims
Kyle Daukaus vs Gerald Meerschaert (middleweight)
Pat Sabatini vs Chepe Mariscal (featherweight)
Angela Hill vs Fatima Kline (women’s strawweight)
Baisangur Susurkaev vs Eric McConico (middleweight)
Viacheslav Borshchev vs Matheus Camilo (lightweight)
UFC 322 main card: Zhang vs Shevchenko in co-main event
Saturday 15 November 2025 23:00 , Alex Pattle‘C’ denotes champion
Jack Della Maddalena (C) vs Islam Makhachev (welterweight title)
Valentina Shevchenko (C) vs Zhang Weili (women’s flyweight title)
Sean Brady vs Michael Morales (welterweight)
Leon Edwards vs Carlos Prates (welterweight)
Beneil Dariush vs Benoit Saint-Denis (lightweight)
What time does UFC 322 start tonight?
Saturday 15 November 2025 22:24 , Alex PattleUFC 322 takes place at Madison Square Garden in New York City tonight.
The early prelims will begin at 11pm GMT (3pm PT / 5pm CT / 6pm ET), with the regular prelims following at 1am GMT on Sunday (5pm PT / 7pm CT / 8pm ET) on Saturday).
The main card is then set for 3am GMT on Sunday (7pm PT / 9pm CT / 10pm ET on Saturday).
We’ll provide live, round-by-round updates of the regular prelims and main card, and we’ll give you a round-up of the early prelims as well!
UFC 322 live: Welcome!
Saturday 15 November 2025 21:59 , Alex PattleTonight, Islam Makhachev will aim to somehow outdo his coach and childhood friend, the great Khabib Nurmagomedov, by winning a second UFC title.
Having given up the lightweight belt earlier this year – after breaking the title-defence record – Makhachev eyes the welterweight strap worn by Jack Della Maddalena, in what could be an intriguing main event at UFC 322.
Russia’s Makhachev, 34, has not lost in 10 years; his Australian opponent, 29, has not lost in nine. With both competitors having exhibited well-rounded games throughout their careers, the headline bout in New York City could prove fascinating viewing. “JDM” is considered to have an edge in the striking department, while Makhachev’s wrestling is as good as it gets in MMA.
And in tonight’s co-main event at Madison Square Garden, Zhang Weili emulates Makhachev by moving up a division and eyeing more gold; the Chinese star, having vacated the women’s strawweight belt to end her second reign, goes after Valentina Shevchenko’s flyweight title in a true super-fight.
Follow live updates and results from UFC 322 right here, from the regular prelims to the main event.
