Montreal, Canada — Islam Makhachev reacted swiftly to the outcome of UFC 315, where Jack Della Maddalena triumphed over Belal Muhammad to capture the welterweight title. For months, Makhachev and his team monitored the fight’s implications, knowing that the results would shape their next moves in the octagon.
Della Maddalena showcased an impressive display of striking finesse, earning a unanimous decision victory with scores of 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46. Following the fight, Della Maddalena expressed excitement about a potential match with Makhachev, emphasizing his determination to honor fellow fighter Alexander Volkanovski.
In the wake of Della Maddalena’s victory, Makhachev took to social media to declare his ambitions of securing the welterweight championship. “Time to become a double champion, inshallah,” he tweeted, signaling his intent to challenge the new titleholder. He also extended words of encouragement to Belal Muhammad, addressing him as a champion.
As Makhachev prepares for this new challenge, the lightweight division remains in a state of uncertainty, with several fighters awaiting clarity on their upcoming bouts. UFC CEO Dana White is expected to address Makhachev’s future in the lightweight division and the newly crowned welterweight champion during the post-fight press conference in Montreal.
Makhachev has stated that he does not plan to relinquish his lightweight title, keeping options open for a potential move up to welterweight. The MMA community is abuzz with anticipation as discussions surrounding fight dates and matchups unfold. The coming days are likely to bring announcements regarding Makhachev’s next steps and the larger impact on the lightweight division.
With a budding rivalry taking shape between Makhachev and Della Maddalena, fans are eager to see how this dynamic will alter the landscape of the UFC. As the situation develops, competitors and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye, expecting significant movements in the ranks of both weight classes.