Islam Makhachev Warns Jack Della Maddalena Ahead of Potential Fight
As the highly anticipated fight approaches, fans are eager to see if Makhachev can successfully transition to the welterweight division and become a double champion, or if Della Maddalena will be able to defend his title against the formidable lightweight champion, with the outcome having significant implications for the UFC landscape.
Islam Makhachev, the current UFC lightweight champion, has issued a warning to newly crowned UFC welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena, stating that he will "show you a different level" if they meet in the octagon, as he eyes a potential move up to 170lbs to pursue a second UFC belt.
Makhachev's statement comes after Della Maddalena secured a unanimous decision victory over Belal Muhammad in the main event of UFC 315, taking the welterweight title in Muhammad's first defense. The result has opened the door for Makhachev to move up to 170lbs and pursue a second UFC belt, a move that could be blocked by UFC policy. Makhachev has reigned over the lightweight division since 2022 and has defeated Alexander Volkanovski twice.
Makhachev has expressed his intention to become a double champion, tweeting "Time to become a double champion #inshaAllah. Let's go." However, UFC policy may prevent him from holding two titles simultaneously, and he may be required to vacate the lightweight belt before challenging Della Maddalena. A potential fight between the two is being considered, with Della Maddalena suggesting Perth as a possible location for the bout, while Makhachev's team is pushing for the fight to take place in Abu Dhabi.
The fight's date and location are yet to be determined, with Della Maddalena pushing for a bout in his home country of Australia. Makhachev is vacating the lightweight title to pursue the welterweight title, with a fight against Jack Della Maddalena booked, setting the stage for an exciting showdown between the two champions.