What Belal Muhammad vs Jack Della Maddalena Means for Islam Makhachev

The upcoming UFC 315 main event between Belal Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena carries significant implications for Islam Makhachev’s aspirations to become a two-division champion. Makhachev, the reigning Lightweight Champion, has expressed interest in moving up to the Welterweight Division to challenge for a second belt. If he does this successfully, he will etch his name into one of the all-time greats, along with names like Conor McGregor, Daniel Cormier, Jon Jones, Amanda Nunes, etc. However, his close friendship and training partnership with Muhammad, the current Welterweight Champion, complicates the situation. Both fighters have indicated reluctance to face each other, with Muhammad stating he would prefer to move up to the Middleweight Division rather than fight Makhachev. Consequently, the outcome of Muhammad’s title defense against Della Maddalena could directly influence Makhachev’s next move. This has led to the UFC waiting for the result of this fight to determine what is next for Makhachev. 

If Muhammad successfully defends his title against Della Maddalena, Makhachev’s path to a Welterweight title shot will be much more challenging, due to their mutual respect and unwillingness to compete against one another. In this scenario, Makhachev most likely will defend his Lightweight Championship against former Featherweight Champion Ilia Topuria. If Della Maddalena wins the battle over Muhammad, it would open the door for Makhachev to have a chance to capture Welterweight gold. UFC President Dana White has acknowledged the significance of this matchup, noting that the results will play a crucial role in determining future title fights, including fights with Topuria and potentially Charles Oliveira.

For Makhachev, this isn’t just about titles but also loyalty and legacy. His relationship with Muhammad is a rare dynamic in a sport often defined by nothing but rivalries. Makhachev has made it clear that, regardless of the main event outcome at UFC 315, he will not vacate his Lightweight Championship. Wherever we see Makhachev next, it will be a legacy-defining fight. Either up a weight class to become a two-division champion or to defend his Lightweight Championship against Topuria, someone who is trying to become a double champion in his own right.