Islam Makhachev’s long-held aim of becoming a double champion has taken a significant step forward. In the co-main event of UFC 315, Jack Della Maddalena stunned the world by dethroning Belal Muhammad in a striking clinic, leaving the welterweight division wide open and Makhachev with a clear road. With ‘Remember The Name’ out of the game and no imminent rematch in sight, all eyes are on the new champion and Dagestan’s lightweight king. Well, it seems like the stage is being set up for one of the most anticipated UFC superfights in UFC history.
Makhachev quickly acknowledged the major shift in the welterweight division. Just moments after Maddalena’s hand was raised, he tweeted, “Time to become a double champion #inshaAllah. Let’s go.” The motive was clear: Makhachev isn’t just watching; he’s already planning. For more than a year, he has stated clearly that he intends to pursue the welterweight belt without vacating his lightweight championship. With a new champion and no logjam at 170, it finally feels real.
And Maddalena? He’s not backing down, either. When asked if he was willing to confront Islam Makhachev, he enthusiastically agreed. “I think it’s a beautiful challenge,” he said. “He’s pound-for-pound No. 1. I’m going to get him back for Volk.” A subtle nod to Makhachev’s two clashes with fellow Australian Alexander Volkanovski, as he now seeks to avenge his fellow countrymen. Well, this surely raises the stakes. This fight would now combine national pride, legacy, and stylistic interest all in one.
Jack Della Maddalena on his expected next fight against Islam Makhachev:
“I think it’s a beautiful challenge. He’s pound-for-pound No. 1. I’m going to get him back for Volk”#UFC315
— Damon Martin (@DamonMartin) May 11, 2025
Jack Della Maddalena’s slick striking or Islam Makhachev’s smothering grappling? The fans are already salivating. What was once a distant goal for the Dagestani now appears to be a reality by 2025. Javier Mendez, Dana White, and the man himself have all expressed interest in a double-title run, and the belt is now in the hands of those ready to fight for it. Makhachev’s legacy play is gaining steam, and with Maddalena coming off a spotless performance, the ball is in Dana White’s court now to book it for the fans. This is a developing story.
The post Alexander Volkanovski Adds News Twist as Jack Della Maddalena Sends Clear Message to Islam Makhachev After UFC 315 appeared first on EssentiallySports.
