Jack Della Maddalena to Face Late-Notice Undefeated Viral Prospect at UFC 290
Aussie UFC fan-favorite Jack Della Maddalena has had a change of plans for UFC 290. His original opponent, Sean Brady, has had to withdraw from their July 9 showdown, citing a medical issue with his shoulder.
Despite callouts from big names like Kevin Holland and Joaquim Buckley, Maddalena is now scheduled to face the undefeated Josiah Harrell from Ohio, America.
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Some hardcore MMA fans might recognize Harrell from a viral clip of him tackling his opponent Mike Roberts through the cage door at LFA 160 on June 16:
"Muscle Hamster" is undefeated in seven professional outings and six amateur bouts. His professional record maintains a 100% finishing rate, with four KO/TKO wins and three submissions. Harrell won the vacant welterweight championship in the Ohio Combat League before moving to LFA and making waves with his viral takedown.
It's a rare opportunity for a UFC debutant to jump straight into the rankings with their first victory. Maddalena is ranked no.14 in the UFC welterweight division, a victory for Harrell would surely place him comfortably in the top 15.
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The last time this happened was late-notice UFC debutant Steve Erceg stealing the no.14 spot away from David Dvorak at UFC 289 on June 11. Erceg was the +330 underdog entering the fight.
Whether the Brady fight was more engaging or not, UFC 290 just got a little bit more interesting. Now the stakes are drastically increased for Maddalena who worked incredibly hard to achieve his ranking. It's go big or go home for Harrell.
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