The UFC welterweight division faces a potential shakeup as Belal Muhammad, current welterweight champion, suggested the possibility of a future title fight involving his teammate Islam Makhachev. This development comes amid Makhachev’s recent move to the 170-pound class to challenge Jack Della Maddalena, the reigning welterweight champion. Muhammad’s comments at the UFC 319 Q/A event have sparked speculation about how the dynamics between the two champions could unfold.

Teammates Preparing for Title Challenges in the Welterweight Division

In recent years, UFC champions have shown a growing trend of moving up weight classes to vie for belts in multiple divisions. Islam Makhachev, the former lightweight champion, is the latest to make this leap as he targets the welterweight title held by Jack Della Maddalena. Meanwhile, Belal Muhammad, who lost his title to Della Maddalena at UFC 315, remains focused on reclaiming his championship status. Despite both fighters sharing close training ties, Muhammad did not rule out the possibility of a fight between him and Makhachev down the road.

When asked directly whether he would face Makhachev if Della Maddalena were to lose the belt, Muhammad responded evasively but confidently:

“It’s my belt. For me, I gotta work my next opponent. After I get my next win, then I can talk about the belt.” —Belal Muhammad via UFC 319 Q/A

This statement reflects Muhammad’s focus on maintaining his championship claim while leaving open the prospect of a confrontation with Makhachev in the future.

Mutual Respect and Training Bonds Under Khabib Nurmagomedov

Both Muhammad and Makhachev share a longstanding friendship rooted in their training environment. They have been part of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s camp, benefiting from his mentorship and rigorous training methodologies. Muhammad has often credited his time with Khabib and Makhachev as instrumental in honing his skills and climbing to championship status.

Despite whispers of tension emerging when Makhachev declared interest in the welterweight title, there remains a strong professional bond as they continue to train together. Makhachev has publicly expressed support for Muhammad’s reign and ambitions, maintaining a united front despite competing ambitions.

Belal Muhammad’s Analysis of Islam Makhachev vs. Jack Della Maddalena

At the UFC 319 Q/A, Muhammad offered a strategic breakdown for fans curious about the potential matchup between Makhachev and the welterweight champ, Jack Della Maddalena. He pointed out that grappling would be the key factor deciding the fight’s outcome:

“I think it comes down to if Islam can take it to the ground. If he gets it to the ground, I think Islam will be levels above him. Could catch the submission, but you have to get to it first.” —Belal Muhammad via UFC 319 Q/A

Makhachev’s fighting style is heavily rooted in combat sambo and Dagestani wrestling, giving him dominant takedown and ground control ability. In contrast, Della Maddalena relies on sharp, high-volume striking, using slick combinations, head movement, and targeted body shots to wear down opponents on their feet. This stylistic contrast defines their upcoming contest, with the outcome hinging on Makhachev’s ability to bring the fight to the mat.

Implications for the Welterweight Division and What Lies Ahead

The welterweight division is entering a tense and uncertain period. Muhammad is focused on his next fight to position himself for another title opportunity, while Makhachev’s ascendancy into the 170-pound class threatens to alter the championship landscape. Should Makhachev defeat Della Maddalena, a showdown between him and Muhammad would become a compelling inevitability, pitting two teammates and former champions against each other for welterweight supremacy.

The relationship between the fighters, their shared history under Khabib Nurmagomedov’s tutelage, and the stylistic matchups add layers of intrigue and anticipation. Muhammad’s noncommittal but firm comments about the belt suggest a willingness to defend his status and challenge Makhachev, provided he continues accumulating wins.

As the division’s hierarchy evolves, MMA fans should watch closely how this potential rivalry unfolds, impacting title defenses, contender trajectories, and the careers of two top-tier athletes striving for multi-divisional dominance.