Islam Makhachev, the UFC lightweight king, declared he will retain his 155-pound crown no matter the result of UFC 315’s welterweight showdown. The event, set for May 10, 2025, at Bell Centre in Montreal, pits champion Belal Muhammad against Jack Della Maddalena. Makhachev’s stance, shared on X, sent ripples through the MMA world.
On May 9, 2025, Makhachev wrote:
“This Saturdays main event will define what’s my next move is. But regardless of outcome that fight, I’m not going to vacate my lightweight title! We might get real contender there!”
This Saturdays main event will define what’s my next move is. But regardless of outcome that fight, I’m not going to vacate my lightweight title! We might get real contender there! pic.twitter.com/c57plqZKcu
— Makhachev Islam (@MAKHACHEVMMA) May 9, 2025
His words hinted at a new challenger rising at 155 pounds. The post quashed rumors of abandoning his weight class.
UFC 315’s main event holds major stakes, as UFC boss Dana White said it will shape Makhachev’s path. If Della Maddalena defeats Muhammad, Makhachev may pursue the 170-pound belt, but he won’t challenge his friend Muhammad. A Muhammad win likely keeps Makhachev at lightweight, facing Ilia Topuria at UFC 317 on June 28, 2025.
Makhachev, 33, boasts a 27-1 record and has ruled lightweight since October 2022. He defended his crown four times, submitting Charles Oliveira, beating Alexander Volkanovski twice, and stopping Dustin Poirier and Renato Moicano. His mastery draws attention to his next move.
Ilia Topuria, a former featherweight champion, surrendered his 145-pound belt to chase Makhachev’s prize. Topuria, unbeaten at 15-0, awaits a shot at UFC 317, but Makhachev’s indecision delays him. Topuria’s bold gamble hinges on Makhachev’s choice.
Other lightweights, like Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan, also seek their opportunity. Oliveira, a past champion, pushes for a rematch, while Tsarukyan, defeated by Makhachev in 2019, craves redemption. Makhachev’s refusal to vacate stalls the weight class.
Makhachev trains under Khabib Nurmagomedov, whose guidance shaped his title run. Their Dagestani camp, known for grueling sessions, prepared him for all four defenses. This mentorship strengthens his resolve to stay champion.
Makhachev’s stance counters earlier reports, which his manager Ali Abdelaziz called false, denying he was waiting for UFC 315. Those April 2025 claims suggested Makhachev would pause until May. His X post clarified his commitment to lightweight.
Makhachev’s Plan Shakes Up Two Divisions
Makhachev’s stated goal to become a two-division champion fuels his interest in welterweight. He’s long eyed a 170-pound belt, but loyalty to Muhammad complicates that ambition. A Della Maddalena victory would open a path without conflict.
If Makhachev stays at 155 pounds, Topuria looms as his likely foe. Topuria, who knocked out Volkanovski and Max Holloway, carries a 15-fight streak, but Volkanovski said Makhachev’s “game plan will be tough” for him. Their potential clash promises fireworks.
Oliveira’s manager, Diego Lima, urged Makhachev to vacate if he moves up, to avoid halting the division. Lima suggested an interim belt for Oliveira or Topuria to keep lightweight active. Makhachev’s decision prioritizes his reign.
Makhachev’s latest defense, a first-round submission of Moicano at UFC 311 on January 18, 2025, came against a late replacement. Moicano filled in for an injured Tsarukyan, and Makhachev tied Khabib Nurmagomedov for lightweight submission wins. His performance silenced doubters.
The Dagestani fighter’s only loss, to Adriano Martins in 2015, preceded 14 straight wins. His 60.3 percent strike accuracy tops the division. Makhachev’s grip on the crown remains firm.
UFC 315, airing on ESPN+ pay-per-view, also features Valentina Shevchenko defending her flyweight belt against Manon Fiorot. The Montreal card’s results will echo across weight classes. Makhachev’s next step shapes the UFC’s 2025.
The lightweight division waits as Makhachev chases history as a potential double champion. His resolve to keep his crown, no matter Saturday’s outcome, sets up a dramatic summer. UFC 317 may decide whether Topuria or welterweight glory comes next.
