Islam Makhachev has once again shaken up the MMA world. Following UFC 315, where Jack Della Maddalena stunned fans by clinching the welterweight title, Makhachev didn’t waste a second. He issued a direct and defiant message: he’s ready to chase a second belt. The reigning lightweight champion now has his eyes on welterweight gold — and his confidence is unshakable.
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Islam Makhachev Targets a Second Title
With the lightweight division currently low on fresh challengers, Islam Makhachev has made it clear that his next goal is the welterweight strap. His recent message wasn’t vague or passive — he’s coming for Jack Della Maddalena, and he wants it soon. This marks a major move in Makhachev’s already dominant career. From Dagestan to the top of the UFC, he’s not just sitting on one title — he’s chasing legacy.
Jack Della Maddalena: The New Man on Top
Della Maddalena stepped into the octagon at UFC 315 with something to prove, and he delivered. His victory came after a tough fight, filled with pressure and expectation. It was more than just another title match — it was his breakthrough moment. With a combination of sharp strikes, strong footwork, and high fight IQ, he outclassed his opponent and seized the welterweight crown. The crowd erupted, but the silence that followed on social media didn’t last long. That’s when Makhachev made his move.
Islam Makhachev vs Jack Della Maddalena: What to Expect
If this superfight happens, it won’t be your average title defense. It will be a battle between two contrasting styles:
Style Clash Table:
| Fighter | Strengths |
|---|---|
| Islam Makhachev | Grappling, Ground Control, Submissions |
| Jack Della Maddalena | Precision Striking, Distance Control, Power Shots |
This fight would not just be about belts — it’s about dominance, pride, and proving who deserves to sit at the top of two divisions.
The Stakes for Islam Makhachev
If Islam Makhachev succeeds, he joins a rare list of two-division champions — fighters who’ve etched their names into UFC history. But the move isn’t without risk. Going up in weight means facing stronger, harder-hitting opponents. Yet, Makhachev’s elite grappling and discipline in the cage make him a threat no matter the size of his opponent.
Still, fans wonder: will the size difference matter? Can his style hold up under the pressure of a bigger fighter? Or will his technique and experience be enough?
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What This Means for the Lightweight Division
While Makhachev looks to the welterweight division, his own title hangs in the balance. Will he vacate the lightweight belt if he wins? Or will he defend both like a true champion?
Several lightweight contenders are already eyeing his throne. Fighters like Charles Oliveira, Arman Tsarukyan, and others see a golden opportunity if Makhachev takes time away from defending at 155 lbs.
This situation might even lead to an interim lightweight title — keeping the division active while the champion moves up.
The UFC’s Golden Opportunity
UFC has a chance to build another blockbuster — a real champion vs champion fight. The hype is building, the fans are excited, and the fighters are ready. It’s a rare scenario where everything lines up perfectly: two elite athletes at the peak of their careers, both willing to fight, both with something to prove.
Expect the UFC to move fast. The marketing writes itself. And if both men stay healthy and ready, we may see this clash sooner than expected.
Final Thoughts: Makhachev’s Legacy in Motion
Islam Makhachev isn’t just defending his title anymore — he’s building his legacy. From his roots in combat sambo to UFC dominance, every step has been calculated. Now, with his eyes on Jack Della Maddalena, he’s taking the biggest risk of his career — and possibly his greatest reward.
Whether you support him or not, one thing’s clear: Makhachev is on a mission. And in the UFC, nothing draws more eyes than a champion chasing history.