Islam Makhachev just added another chapter to his growing legacy, becoming a rare two-division UFC champion after dismantling Jack Della Maddalena for five straight rounds at UFC 322.
But after the final horn sounded inside Madison Square Garden, Makhachev had someone specific he wanted to talk to – and it wasn’t his opponent.
It was Craig Jones.
Jones cornered Della Maddalena for the welterweight title fight, and Makhachev made a direct walk toward him immediately afterward.
At the post-fight press conference, Makhachev explained exactly what he said:
I told him: “Your Jiu-Jitsu is not working. You have to come to Dagestan for 2–3 years.”
According to Makhachev, Jones burst out laughing and even told Khabib he’d consider making the trip
This marks the second time Makhachev has defeated a top contender heavily coached by Jones.
Before Della Maddalena, Makhachev submitted Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284, and Volkanovski had spent significant time training under Jones prior to his move up in weight.
The fight itself wasn’t close. Makhachev secured a takedown in the first minute and never let Della Maddalena breathe for the entire 25-minute championship bout.
Judges scored it 50-45 across the board.
Della Maddalena defended submissions, but he could never get out of the Dagestani pressure.
For Makhachev, the welterweight division feels like home:
I feel more power, I feel more confident when I strike and when I move.
I can control anyone on the ground right now.
I never felt like this before.
View this post on Instagram
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents
💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win?
💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers?
It’s not your age. It’s your strategy.
If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you.
🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:
Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu
Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.
Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.
