UFC 322: Makhachev vs. Della Maddalena - Live Event Coverage (2025)

Hold on tight, fight fans! UFC 322 is poised to deliver a history-making spectacle, but will it live up to the hype? Islam Makhachev is gunning for welterweight gold against champion Jack Della Maddalena in a clash that could redefine his legacy. But there's even more action to anticipate, including Brit Leon Edwards taking on the explosive Carlos Prates. Let's dive into everything that's unfolded so far, live from Madison Square Garden in New York!

'It's a big thing' - Makhachev wants to make history with Della Maddalena victory

Video credit: TNT Sports

How to Watch UFC 322 in the UK

Don't miss a single punch! UFC 322 is broadcasting live on TNT Sports 1. For UK viewers, the streaming home is discovery+, offering a subscription that bundles TNT Sports with a wide range of entertainment. You can also access TNT Sports through BT, EE, Sky, and Virgin Media.

‘Biggest challenge of my career’ - Della Maddalena on facing off against Makhachev at UFC 322

Video credit: TNT Sports

The Fight Card is LIVE!

Get ready for some serious action! The prelims are underway, and we're bringing you blow-by-blow coverage. We're live on TNT Sports 1 shortly!

Welcome to live coverage of UFC 322, emanating from the legendary Madison Square Garden in New York City! The main event sees welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena defending his title against the relentless Islam Makhachev in what promises to be an epic showdown. And that's not all! We also have another electrifying welterweight battle lined up, with Britain's own Leon Edwards facing off against the dangerous Carlos Prates. Could Edwards be overlooking Prates, setting himself up for a potential upset? Let's find out!

Wellmaker vs. Ewing: A Bantamweight Battle

Wellmaker-Ewing up first

Malcolm Wellmaker (10-0) entered the Octagon against late replacement Ethyn Ewing (8-2), who stepped in for the injured Cody Haddon in what was originally slated as a featherweight contest. Talk about pressure! Stepping in on short notice is always a gamble. Did Ewing have enough time to prepare?

Wellmaker-Ewing: Round 1

You had to feel for Ewing, entering this contest late. Wellmaker has earned his fierce reputation, and a checked right hook nearly put Ewing down early. However, the underdog warmed into the contest, managing a takedown, albeit momentarily. Ewing maintained control for most of the final two minutes, landing a couple of knees while headlocking his opponent as the round ended. Could this early momentum shift the fight in Ewing's favor?

Wellmaker-Ewing: Round 2

Ewing continued his momentum, landing a solid left kick upstairs and sharp right hands in close. Wellmaker responded with shots of his own, but Ewing's blows seemed to carry more weight. Ewing surprisingly displayed superior boxing skills, opening up a cut on Wellmaker, who appeared less eager to engage at close range. A stunning five-punch flurry of hooks and uppercuts rocked Wellmaker's head back. The round concluded with Wellmaker landing a spinning elbow, but Ewing countered with a powerful right hand on the pre-fight favorite. Was Wellmaker underestimating Ewing's striking ability?

Wellmaker-Ewing: Round 3

The final round began evenly, with both fighters having their moments. After a good combination, Ewing secured a clinch. In the closing minutes, Ewing continued to land cleaner shots, including numerous strikes and a knee lift. He took Wellmaker down in the final moments and gained back control, seemingly sealing his victory. Did Ewing's late surge convince the judges?

Ewing wins on points!

Ethyn Ewing is awarded the victory with scores of 30-27 and 29-28 (twice)! A fantastic win for the late replacement, who entered the contest as a significant underdog (bigger than 3/1 odds). This proves anything can happen in the fight game!

Blanchfield vs. Cortez: A Bantamweight Clash

Blanchfield-Cortez up now

A bantamweight contest saw No. 4-ranked Erin Blanchfield (13-2) taking on No. 8-ranked Tracy Cortez (12-2). The stakes were high in this matchup – a potential title shot could be on the line for the winner.

Blanchfield-Cortez: Round 1

Cortez edged out the opener, despite a nasty-looking cut above her right eye. Could this early injury affect her performance in the later rounds?

Blanchfield makes Cortez tap in Round 2

Both fighters had their moments early in the round, but Blanchfield seized control by taking Cortez to the mat and unleashing vicious ground and pound. Cortez managed to get back to her feet, but Blanchfield maintained her grip, charging her halfway across the Octagon and slamming her back to the canvas. Blanchfield then transitioned, locking in a chokehold that forced Cortez to tap out. A dominant performance by Blanchfield! Is she now a legitimate contender for the bantamweight title?

Kopylov vs. Rodriguez: A Middleweight War

Kopylov takes on Rodriguez next

A middleweight contest pitted Russian Roman Kopylov (14-4) against Gregory Rodriguez (17-6) of Brazil. Both fighters are known for their brutal striking, promising an explosive encounter.

Kopylov-Rodrigues: Round 1

Kopylov was clearly wary of Rodriguez's power. Towards the end of the round, Kopylov took Rodriguez to the mat, only to receive a heel kick to the face for his trouble. Ouch! That's a painful reminder that anything can happen at any moment in MMA. Did this exchange change Kopylov's strategy for the rest of the fight?

So, what are your thoughts on UFC 322 so far? Did Makhachev's quest for double-champ status seem realistic to you? And what about Blanchfield's impressive victory – is she ready for a title shot? Let us know your predictions and opinions in the comments below!