Islam Makhachev is officially moving up to welterweight, vacating his UFC lightweight title to challenge reigning champion Jack Della Maddalena later this year.
The announcement was made by UFC CEO Dana White, confirming that both fighters have agreed to the bout, with a date and venue yet to be finalised.
Makhachev’s decision follows Jack Della Maddalena’s victory over Belal Muhammad at UFC 315, ending the title reign of Makhachev’s close friend and training partner.
Makhachev had previously stated he would not pursue the welterweight title while Muhammad held the belt.
Time to become a double champion #inshaAllah
— Makhachev Islam (@MAKHACHEVMMA) May 11, 2025
Let’s go
It will be Makhachev's first fight in the UFC at welterweight. He is currently on a 15-fight win streak, with all his fights (bar one) in the UFC being held at lightweight.
Meanwhile the new champion Della Maddalena is on an 18-fight win streak. He made his way through 'Dana White's Contender Series' all the way to UFC gold against Belal Muhammad.
Makhachev, the UFC’s No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter, seeks to join the ranks of double champions. Della Maddalena, who has suggested the fight take place in his native Australia, has embraced the challenge.
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