A highly significant title bout is scheduled to take place at UFC 315 this weekend. The event, held in Montreal, Canada, features a clash between top welterweights. Champion Belal Muhammad is set to defend his belt against the #5 ranked contender, Jack Della Maddalena, in the five-round headliner.
The outcome of the Muhammad vs. Della Maddalena fight will not only shape the future of the welterweight division but also have direct implications for the lightweight category.
Both former UFC champion and lightweight title hopeful Ilia Topuria, along with CEO Dana White, have indicated that the winner of the UFC 315 main event will determine the next opponent for lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. This could mean Makhachev moving up a weight class to challenge Della Maddalena, or defending his 155lb title should Muhammad retain it.
Makhachev appears to be aligned with the UFC`s plan, following a discussion with UFC chief business officer Hunter Campbell.
Makhachev States He Won`t Vacate Lightweight Title Regardless of UFC 315 Result
Despite considerable anticipation for a potential lightweight super-fight against Topuria, Makhachev has confirmed he is waiting on the result of Muhammad`s upcoming fight before deciding whether to pursue a second title or not.
While he is contemplating a future at 170lbs, Makhachev has no intention of relinquishing his lightweight championship just yet.
Makhachev stated on X that “This Saturdays main event will define what’s my next move is.” He added, “But regardless of outcome that fight, I’m not going to vacate my lightweight title! We might get real contender there!”
Indeed, several strong contenders are vying for a shot at his lightweight belt.
Potential for Interim Lightweight Title If Della Maddalena Wins
Should Jack Della Maddalena defeat Belal Muhammad this weekend, it could create a complex situation in the lightweight division.
Former UFC Featherweight Champion Ilia Topuria claims the UFC promised him an immediate shot at the lightweight title upon moving up, insisting he will only fight for the belt. Topuria recently mentioned Charles Oliveira as a possible opponent for a vacant title, but with Makhachev committed to holding his belt, Topuria and Oliveira might instead compete for an interim lightweight championship while Makhachev explores the possibility of becoming a two-division king.
Although Makhachev may not be particularly eager to face Topuria, the Spaniard is the most likely next challenger if Belal Muhammad emerges victorious at UFC 315.
A fight between Makhachev and Topuria would be one of the biggest title clashes in UFC history, featuring two fighters on impressive combined win streaks totaling 31 victories.
Meanwhile, other top contenders in the lightweight division, including Justin Gaethje, Arman Tsarukyan, Paddy Pimblett, and Dan Hooker, will likely need to compete against each other to earn their eventual title opportunity.
Rupert Hartwell