Islam Makhachev’s decision to vacate the lightweight championship and pursue success in the welterweight division has placed his UFC future in a precarious position. With a title fight scheduled against Jack Della Maddalena, Makhachev risks losing his chance at any title if he falls, creating uncertainty about his standing among the division’s top contenders. This Islam Makhachev title shot risk has drawn intense scrutiny as fans and fighters alike await the outcome of their upcoming bout.
The rivalry with Ilia Topuria, who ascended from featherweight to challenge for the lightweight belt, further complicates Makhachev’s path. Topuria’s bold move to compete at lightweight was meant to solidify his legacy, but Makhachev’s exit from that division leaves his former rival unyielding in his stance regarding title opportunities should Makhachev lose at welterweight.
Topuria’s Firm Stance on Makhachev’s Potential Return
Ilia Topuria made it clear during a recent interview that he would not support an immediate title shot for Makhachev if he loses at welterweight and then attempts to return to lightweight. Topuria emphasized that Makhachev would need to re-enter the queue rather than be granted special consideration, underscoring the competitive nature of the lightweight division.
If he loses, I will give him nothing. Let him get in line.
—Ilia Topuria, UFC Fighter
This statement highlights how fiercely contested the lightweight division remains. Fighters such as Arman Tsarukyan, Justin Gaethje, and Paddy Pimblett are all eager contenders ready to challenge the winner of UFC 317. Tsarukyan, in particular, is preparing as a backup in case Topuria or Charles Oliveira cannot compete in their upcoming title fight.
Intense Lightweight Contenders Challenge Makhachev’s Return
Justin Gaethje has publicly demanded the next lightweight title belt, believing his recent performances more than warrant the opportunity. After his impressive victory against Rafael Fiziev, Gaethje reportedly told UFC management that he was ready for a title shot or else he would consider retiring from competition, a claim relayed by Makhachev’s manager Ali Abdelaziz.
Paddy Pimblett also remains a strong contender for a title shot due to his intense rivalry with Topuria. Should Topuria defeat Oliveira at UFC 317, it could set the stage for a lucrative matchup between him and Pimblett, which both are promoting as a potential blockbuster bout for UFC history.
Clarification from Islam Makhachev’s Coach on His Career Decisions
Amid accusations that Makhachev avoided fighting Topuria by vacating his lightweight title, his coach Javier Mendez provided insight into the fighter’s motivation behind the move. Mendez clarified that the decision was not motivated by weight struggles but rather by a broader vision of Makhachev’s legacy within the sport.
No, it’s not a weight issue, it’s a legacy issue. He didn’t want to fight Topuria because the image of him fighting another featherweight wasn’t in it for him, okay? Everything for Topuria and nothing for Islam. But, now that the welterweight title was open, that’s why he wanted to wait for that fight to happen between Jack [Della Maddalena] and Belal [Muhammad]. Let’s see what happens if they both win.
—Javier Mendez, Islam Makhachev’s Coach
This perspective indicates Makhachev’s ambition to become a two–division champion, aspiring to match or surpass the achievements of his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov. With the UFC not immediately offering him the chance to defend or reclaim his lightweight title, Makhachev chose to focus on the welterweight division where the championship is currently vacant.
The High-Stakes Challenge of Facing Jack Della Maddalena
Makhachev’s upcoming title fight against Jack Della Maddalena presents a significant challenge. Della Maddalena has gained momentum with a recent victory over Belal Muhammad to claim the welterweight belt, showcasing his skill and confidence. Should Makhachev lose, he faces not only the loss of a championship opportunity but also the daunting prospect of reestablishing himself within a highly competitive welterweight division.
This fight is pivotal not just for the fighters’ careers but for the landscape of UFC’s welterweight title scene. The outcome will likely influence matchmaking and rankings in the coming months, as top contenders strategize their paths forward.
What the Future Holds for Islam Makhachev and the Divisions
Makhachev’s willingness to step into the welterweight division signals a desire to secure a lasting legacy by becoming a two-division UFC champion. However, this move carries the real possibility of a prolonged wait if he falters against Della Maddalena. Should he lose, the robust roster of lightweight contenders, including Topuria, Gaethje, Pimblett, and Tsarukyan, means he would face a difficult road back to a title shot.
Meanwhile, the UFC’s approach to arranging future bouts will be closely watched, particularly concerning how quickly they will offer shots to rising contenders and how Makhachev’s career trajectory evolves. This juncture marks a critical moment not only for Makhachev but for the lightweight and welterweight divisions as a whole.