Makhachev reflects on Maddalena and points out the ideal opponent for the UFC Casa Branca showdown.

I. Makhachev and D. White during a ceremonial face-off at the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/X

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Determined to further enhance his legacy in the world of MMA, Islam Makhachev demonstrates his willingness to seek greater heights with each appearance in the octagon. Despite preparing to fight for the welterweight title (up to 77,1kg) against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322, the Russian has expressed interest in fighting at the first-ever White House event in 2026.

Annoyed by the fact that Ilia Topuria is currently ranked number one in the pound-for-pound rankings, Makhachev, who is currently ranked second, vows to put on the 'biggest fight' the UFC can offer fans, in the garden of the United States presidential residence.

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"He (Topuria) wants to fight at the White House, and I want to be there too. For the MMA community, it's going to be a big fight. People want this fight, and if the UFC wants this fight, we can make it. I know the UFC wants a big fight at the White House. What fight will be bigger than this?" Makhachev said in an interview with ESPN.

Scheduled to appear on November 15th in the main event of UFC 322, Makhachev is seeking his second title in the organization and is considered the favorite to face Maddalena. The fight will take place in New York, USA, at Madison Square Garden.

Topuria, on the other hand, still doesn't have a fight scheduled for his first lightweight title defense (up to 70,3kg). According to Dana White, his opponent has not yet been determined. Names like Justin Gaethje and the winner of Arman Tsarukyan vs. Dan Hooker are potential contenders to take his place next.

Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev want to face each other in the UFC. Photo: SUPER LUTAS montage

PUBLICITY:

Scheduled to appear on November 15th in the main event of UFC 322, Makhachev is seeking his second title in the organization and is considered the favorite to face Maddalena. The fight will take place in New York, USA, at Madison Square Garden.

Topuria, on the other hand, still doesn't have a fight scheduled for his first lightweight title defense (up to 70,3kg). According to Dana White, his opponent has not yet been determined. Names like Justin Gaethje and the winner of Arman Tsarukyan vs. Dan Hooker are potential contenders to take his place next.

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