Key Highlights
- The main event features Islam Makhachev against Jack Della Maddalena in a welterweight championship bout.
- The co-main event pits Valentina Shevchenko against Zhang Weili, expected to be the greatest women’s fight of all time.
- Sean Brady will face Michael Morales in a contender matchup.
- Leon Edwards is set to face Prates in a tough contest for Edwards’ chin and fighting style.
UFC 322: A Premier Card in MMA History
The upcoming UFC event, UFC 322, promises to be an unforgettable spectacle. Scheduled for Madison Square Garden on November 14, 2025, this card is headlined by two championship bouts, showcasing the best of both male and female fighters.
Main Event: Islam Makhachev vs Jack Della Maddalena
Islam Makhachev’s move to welterweight adds another layer of intrigue. The former lightweight champion aims to dethrone Jack Della Maddalena, the current welterweight champion. Makhachev is known for his technical prowess and submission capabilities, while Della Maddalena brings clean boxing and effective defense.
According to Drake Riggs, “Della Maddalena has some of the cleanest, prettiest-to-watch boxing in MMA right now.” However, Makhachev’s grappling game remains a significant factor. Riggs predicts that Makhachev will have his three-round lead but acknowledges the underdog status Della Maddalena has become accustomed to.
- Makhachev’s technical soundness and potential for a submission are crucial factors in this bout.
- Della Maddalena’s defensive maneuvers and attacks on exits will play a vital role.
Co-MAIN Event: Valentina Shevchenko vs Zhang Weili
The co-main event features two all-time great female fighters, Valentina Shevchenko and Zhang Weili. This matchup is considered the greatest women’s fight of all time due to their skill levels and historical significance in MMA.
Drake Riggs predicts a highly competitive fight that will be a combination of chess match and rock ’em, sock ’em action. He notes, “The winner could easily be considered the GOAT by Sunday morning — or if nothing else, the skill-for-skill most talented to ever do it.” The unknown factor for Zhang at flyweight is Riggs’ primary concern.
- The size difference isn’t a major concern for Zhang, who is technically superior to nearly everyone.
- Shevchenko’s physicality poses a problem, but her fight IQ and veteran savvy could lead to a competitive outcome.
Other Notable Contender Matchups
In addition to the main event and co-main event, UFC 322 features several other notable matchups. Sean Brady will face Michael Morales in a tough contender matchup. Leon Edwards is set to face Prates, with concerns about Edwards’ chin at this stage of his career.
- Brady and Morales have never met before but are known for their striking prowess and grappling skills.
- Edwards faces a dangerous opponent in Prates, who uses joint strikes with abusive force.
Expert Predictions and Betting Odds
Betting odds via BetMGM predict that Makhachev will maintain his hold on the welterweight throne. The lineup grade for UFC 322 is an A+, indicating a high-quality card with numerous significant matchups.
Quick Picks:
- Bo Nickal def. Rodolfo Vieira
- Gregory Rodrigues def.
Roman Kopylov
- Erin Blanchfield def. Tracy Cortez
- Malcolm Wellmaker def. Ethyn Ewing
- Kyle Daukaus def.
Gerald Meerschaert
- Pat Sabatini def. Chepe Mariscal
- Fatima Kline def. Angela Hill
- Baisangur Susurkaev def. Eric McConico
UFC 322 is set to deliver a thrilling night of MMA, with fans eagerly anticipating these high-stakes matchups.
