Islam Makhachev Eyes Double Champion Status After UFC 315
UFC lightweight champ Islam Makhachev sets sights on welterweight gold after Jack Della Maddalena’s big win at UFC 315.
Islam Makhachev reacts to UFC 315: “Time to become double champ”
UFC 315 delivered high drama in the welterweight division as Jack Della Maddalena defeated Belal Muhammad via unanimous decision to capture the welterweight title. In the aftermath, UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev quickly made headlines with his reaction on X (formerly Twitter):
“Time to become a double champion #inshaAllah. Let’s go.”
– Islam Makhachev on X, May 11, 2025
The Dagestani champion had previously been reluctant to move up in weight due to his friendship with Muhammad. With Della Maddalena now holding the belt, that hesitation appears to be gone.
Della Maddalena stuns in a five-round war
Originally scheduled to defend his belt against Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310, Belal Muhammad withdrew due to injury. Jack Della Maddalena stepped in as the new challenger at UFC 315, and the Australian striker did not disappoint.
Across five rounds, Della Maddalena showcased crisp boxing, composure, and impressive takedown defense. According to UFC stats:
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178 significant strikes landed by Della Maddalena
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132 significant strikes landed by Muhammad
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6 of 9 takedown attempts defended by Della Maddalena
The judges scored it 49–46, 48–47, and 48–47 – all in favor of the new champ. It was a clinical performance that firmly established Della Maddalena as a legitimate force at 170 lbs.
Why Makhachev didn’t move up earlier
Prior to UFC 315, a move to welterweight seemed unlikely for Islam Makhachev. He and Belal Muhammad share a strong bond and have trained together on multiple occasions.
“Islam is the best in the world right now, but he would never fight me. We’ve talked about it.”
– Belal Muhammad, The MMA Hour
With that barrier removed, Makhachev now appears ready to chase history by becoming the next UFC double champion. He would join names like Conor McGregor, Amanda Nunes, Daniel Cormier, and Henry Cejudo in achieving the feat.
What happens to the lightweight belt?
Makhachev’s ambition raises an important question for the UFC: what becomes of the lightweight division if he moves up?
Several options are being debated:
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Interim lightweight title fight: between top contenders like Charles Oliveira and Ilia Topuria.
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Mandatory title defense: before granting a welterweight title shot.
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Vacating the belt: if Makhachev commits fully to welterweight.
Historically, the UFC has opted for interim belts in similar situations (e.g. McGregor in 2016). Dana White has yet to make an official statement, but the clock is ticking on Makhachev’s next move.
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Could Makhachev vs Della Maddalena be next?
A potential clash between Makhachev and Della Maddalena would feature two elite specialists:
Islam Makhachev:
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Dominant grappling and ground control
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Octagon IQ and endurance
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Currently riding a 14-fight win streak
Jack Della Maddalena:
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Technical and high-volume striker
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Durable with strong takedown defense
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New champion with momentum and star power
Stylistically, it’s a dream fight. And with both men holding UFC gold, the timing couldn’t be better.
What would you do if you were Dana White?
If you were UFC President Dana White, how would you handle this situation?
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Allow Makhachev to challenge for a second title without vacating?
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Set up an interim title bout at lightweight in the meantime?
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Or strip the lightweight belt if Makhachev doesn’t commit to a defense?
The UFC has faced similar crossroads before, but the stakes here are even higher due to the champion’s dominant streak and rising star in Della Maddalena.
Summary: A new superfight era begins?
Islam Makhachev’s interest in becoming a double champion is more than talk – it’s a serious next step. Jack Della Maddalena’s new reign and elite striking offer the perfect stylistic test. With momentum building on both sides, UFC fans may be on the verge of witnessing a massive champ vs. champ showdown.
All eyes now turn to Dana White and the UFC matchmakers to see what comes next.
Source: MMAnytt.se
