In the ever-evolving world of mixed martial arts, an underdog team from Perth, Australia, is ready to take on a legendary lineage. This self-taught group, known as Scrappy MMA, is preparing for a significant challenge at UFC 322. Their star fighter, Jack Della Maddalena, will defend his welterweight championship against the former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev on Saturday at Madison Square Garden.
Meet Scrappy MMA
Head coach Ben Vickers admits he lacks conventional qualifications in the sport. With a professional MMA record of 0-2, he has forged a successful coaching career primarily focused on Della Maddalena, who boasts an impressive record of 18 wins and 2 losses. Vickers leads a small, homegrown team with limited martial arts backgrounds, yet they have risen to prominence in a competitive landscape.
Unique Training Philosophy
Vickers emphasizes a philosophy he calls “beautiful violence.” He believes in training to inflict damage rather than merely winning by decision. His coaching approach encourages fighters to be aggressive and creative, allowing them to express their own fighting styles.
The Journey to the Top
- Champion Status: Jack Della Maddalena is undefeated in the UFC since January 2022.
- Team Composition: Scrappy MMA consists of Vickers, Della Maddalena, teammate Ryan Gray, and Jack’s brother, Josh.
- Training History: Vickers began training in martial arts at the age of 25, which significantly shaped his coaching philosophy.
- Growth of MMA in Perth: The local scene has transformed from limited opportunities to hosting a UFC champion within 13 years.
The Upcoming Matchup
Della Maddalena’s championship defense will not be an easy task. He faces Makhachev, who has a stellar record of 27 wins and just 1 loss. Makhachev is trained by Khabib Nurmagomedov, the only UFC champion to retire undefeated, and his team brings decades of experience to the cage.
As they prepare for the fight, Scrappy MMA remains confident despite the stark contrast in credentials. Team members express their belief that hard work and dedication can overcome any disparity in experience. “We’re not here to be famous,” Vickers asserts. “Jack will beat Islam on Saturday, and we’ll go back to our routine until the next fight.”
The Future of Scrappy MMA
As Jack Della Maddalena steps into the octagon, all eyes will be on Scrappy MMA and their unorthodox path. Their self-taught methods may defy traditional expectations, but they embody a commitment to excellence and resilience. Whether or not they can topple the MMA heavyweight remains to be seen. However, their journey alone is a testament to the spirit of combat sports.
