Makhachev Set to Challenge Della Maddalena for Welterweight Title
Ali Abdelaziz explains Islam Makhachev vacating UFC title
Islam Makhachev’s manager Ali Abdelaziz talks to MMA Junkie about vacating the lightweight title to move to welterweight.
Islam Makhachev’s manager revealed that recent UFC fight bookings were influenced by the outcome of the UFC 315 main event. Belal Muhammad’s loss to Jack Della Maddalena led to Makhachev vacating the lightweight title to challenge Della Maddalena for the welterweight title later this year.
Abdelaziz explained that if Muhammad had won, Makhachev would have stayed at lightweight. However, with Della Maddalena as the new champion, Makhachev decided to make the move to welterweight for a new challenge.
Makhachev’s impressive record and dominant performances make him a deserving contender for the welterweight title. Despite vacating the lightweight title, Abdelaziz believes Makhachev’s legacy in that division remains intact.
With a winning streak of 15 fights and a reputation for finishing his opponents, Makhachev is poised to make a strong impact in the welterweight division. Abdelaziz is confident that Makhachev will excel in his new weight class and potentially hold two titles simultaneously.

