Former UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev is preparing to embark on a new challenge by moving up to the welterweight division. Having relinquished his 155-pound title to focus on chasing the welterweight belt held by Jack Della Maddalena, Makhachev aims to secure his second championship this year. The 170-pound category is competitive with many contenders, but Makhachev is widely anticipated to make a significant impact when he debuts in this weight class. Recently, he revealed his ambition to compete for the welterweight title at the iconic Madison Square Garden, a venue praised for hosting some of the biggest events in both MMA and boxing. Traditionally, the UFC holds its major New York City pay-per-view in November.
UFC President Dana White confirmed that Makhachev was a dominant figure upon vacating the lightweight crown. With Ilia Topuria stepping in to vie for the now-vacant lightweight title at UFC 317, Makhachev admitted that retaining the lightweight championship wasn’t feasible given his commitment to competing in two divisions. He explained, “I want to keep the lightweight belt, but fighting Della Maddalena this fall won’t allow that. Since Ramadan began last February, I’ve held the lightweight title for over a year without defending it, and that isn’t fair to anyone.”
Makhachev last defended his lightweight title in January, achieving a record number of consecutive defenses by submitting Renato Moicano. Looking ahead, Arman Tsarukyan is set to fill Topuria’s spot at UFC 311.
Fan Take: Islam Makhachev’s move to welterweight marks a thrilling new chapter for the sport, bringing a dominant lightweight into one of MMA’s most stacked divisions. If he can succeed at Madison Square Garden and unite titles, it could redefine the era for MMA fans and elevate the sport’s prestige even further.
