Islam Makhachev, the UFC lightweight champion, declared his intent to seize Jack Della Maddalena’s welterweight crown following UFC 315 on May 10, 2025. Della Maddalena claimed the 170-pound belt by defeating Belal Muhammad in a thrilling unanimous decision at Bell Centre in Montreal. Makhachev’s bold challenge ignited anticipation for a champion-versus-champion showdown.
Immediately after the bout, Makhachev took to Twitter with a clear goal.
“Time to become a double champion,” Makhachev wrote on Twitter post UFC 315. “Let’s go.” His message signaled his ambition to conquer a second weight class.
Time to become a double champion #inshaAllah
Let’s go— Makhachev Islam (@MAKHACHEVMMA) May 11, 2025
Makhachev also sent a direct warning to Della Maddalena.
“You are not Volk,” Makhachev said to Maddalena. “I will show you different level. Keep my belt clean.”
The remark referenced his two victories over Alexander Volkanovski, Della Maddalena’s compatriot.
You are not Volk I will show you different level. Keep my belt clean https://t.co/gTplxCAXMY
— Makhachev Islam (@MAKHACHEVMMA) May 11, 2025
Della Maddalena, unfazed, welcomed the challenge in his post-fight interview.
“Come get it,” Della Makhachev said. “I think there are a lot of good welterweights. Obviously, I think Islam what he’s done, I think he deserves the shot if he wants to step up. But I guess that’s not my call, it’s up to the UFC.”
His response showed confidence and respect for Makhachev’s credentials.
Jack Della Maddalena Tells Islam Makhachev To “Come and Get It” after Islam says to “Keep his Belt Clean” 👀 pic.twitter.com/BJ4uHUSoLY
— Kevin (@realkevink) May 11, 2025
The UFC 315 main event saw Della Maddalena outstrike Muhammad, landing 200 total shots to Muhammad’s 155 . Judges scored the five-round clash 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46, ending Muhammad’s 11-fight unbeaten streak. The victory marked Della Maddalena’s eighth straight UFC win.
Makhachev’s pursuit of the welterweight belt hinged on Muhammad’s defeat, as their friendship prevented a challenge. With Della Maddalena now champion, Makhachev sees a clear path to become a two-division king. UFC CEO Dana White confirmed the fight’s outcome would shape Makhachev’s next move.
Della Maddalena, 28, showcased crisp boxing and takedown defense, stuffing six of Muhammad’s nine attempts. His performance earned a $50,000 Fight of the Night bonus alongside Muhammad. The Australian’s rise continues his 17-fight win streak.
UFC 315 also featured Valentina Shevchenko defending her flyweight belt against Manon Fiorot, winning by unanimous decision. Aiemann Zahabi’s upset over Jose Aldo led to Aldo’s retirement. The Montreal card reshaped multiple divisions.
Makhachev’s Ambition Reshapes Two Divisions
Makhachev, 33, holds a 27-1 record and has dominated lightweight since 2022, defending his crown four times. His wins over Volkanovski, including a 2023 head-kick knockout, fuel his confidence against Della Maddalena. He insists on keeping his 155-pound belt, even if he moves up.
Della Maddalena, now 18-2, views the Makhachev fight as a chance to avenge Volkanovski’s losses. He called it a “beautiful challenge,” noting Makhachev’s top pound-for-pound ranking. The Perth native’s striking prowess makes the matchup compelling.
The welterweight division faces a logjam, with Shavkat Rakhmonov, Sean Brady, and Ian Garry awaiting shots. Rakhmonov’s injury opened Della Maddalena’s title opportunity, but Makhachev’s potential leapfrogging frustrates contenders. Della Maddalena supports Makhachev’s claim, citing his achievements.
Makhachev’s lightweight division also feels the ripple. Ilia Topuria, who vacated his featherweight belt, awaits Makhachev or Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 on June 28, 2025. Topuria may face Oliveira for an interim belt if Makhachev shifts to 170 pounds.
Fighters praised the UFC 315 main event. Renato Moicano called it an “insane” battle, while Randy Brown saluted both competitors. The striking war exceeded expectations, boosting anticipation for Makhachev’s challenge.
Della Maddalena’s preparation included overcoming a year-long injury layoff. His 55% strike accuracy and ability to stay upright against Muhammad’s pressure highlight his readiness for Makhachev. The fight could headline a 2025 card, possibly in Perth.
Makhachev’s training under Khabib Nurmagomedov bolsters his bid for double-champion status. His 60.3% strike accuracy and submission skills contrast Della Maddalena’s boxing. The clash promises a stylistic showdown.
