Islam Makhachev didn’t just flirt with the idea of moving up — he fulfilled it.
After years of dominating the lightweight division with surgical precision, the Dagestani star made history in November 2025 by capturing the UFC welterweight title in the main event of UFC 322 at Madison Square Garden.
His unanimous decision win over then-champion Jack Della Maddalena solidified him as one of the rare fighters to hold gold in two weight classes simultaneously.
The Lightweight Legacy
Makhachev’s title run was nothing short of clinical. He stopped Charles Oliveira and twice beat Alexander Volkanovski with a mix of precise striking and relentless control on the mat. His patience, balance, and fight IQ made him one of the toughest puzzle solvers in UFC history.
By the end of his lightweight reign, there were few fresh challenges left at 155 pounds. Justin Gaethje, Arman Tsarukyan, and Mateusz Gamrot were all credible contenders, but none carried the same weight — or legacy upside — as a move toward a second belt.
But vacating the lightweight title and stepping into a new division is about more than avoiding a tough cut. It’s about legacy. In a sport built on evolution and reinvention, champions are remembered not just for dominance, but for daring. Makhachev chose to test his skills against bigger, stronger athletes — a decision that has now paid off in historic fashion.
Dominance at 170 lbs
At UFC 322, Makhachev’s wrestling smothered Della Maddalena for five rounds, earning a 50-45 sweep on all judges’ scorecards and the welterweight belt. His takedown success and top control neutralised the Australian’s power and striking rhythm, turning what many expected to be a close stylistic chess match into a tactical showcase.
With this win, Makhachev entered an elite club of two-division champions — joining legends like Georges St-Pierre, Randy Couture, Henry Cejudo, and Daniel Cormier — and tied the UFC record for most consecutive wins with 16 straight victories.
What’s Next?
Now the narrative shifts from achievement to legacy cementation. Makhachev’s next challenger at 170 isn’t yet set in stone, but a host of contenders — from undefeated forces like Shavkat Rakhmonov to established vets such as Belal Muhammad — could be next in line. A matchup against former champ Kamaru Usman has been floated, though critics argue there are more deserving contenders out there.
Regardless of the next name called, one thing is clear: Makhachev’s journey to welterweight wasn’t a gimmick — it was a career-defining chapter. By succeeding on two distinct stages, he has strengthened his case as one of MMA’s most complete and adaptable fighters ever. For fight fans, it’s the kind of bold evolution that keeps the sport’s history exciting — and its future wide open.