In a move that has stunned fans and analysts alike, Islam Makhachev has officially vacated his UFC Lightweight title with plans to move up to the Welterweight division. This unexpected announcement comes at a time when the 155-lb division was already brimming with contenders eager to challenge the reigning champion. But now, with Islam turning his focus toward 170 lbs, the landscape of both divisions is about to shift in dramatic fashion.
“It’s not just about belts. It’s about legacy, challenge, and proving I’m the best across divisions.”
— Islam Makhachev in a recent interview.
Why Did Islam Vacate the Lightweight Title?
The decision wasn’t entirely out of the blue. For months, whispers had been circulating within the MMA community about Islam Makhachev’s intentions to test himself at Welterweight. Having defended his Lightweight title with precision and dominance—most notably against Alexander Volkanovski and Charles Oliveira—there was a growing belief that the Dagestani had done enough to warrant a move.
There were also hints from his training partners and team at American Kickboxing Academy (AKA). Khabib Nurmagomedov, his longtime mentor, previously alluded to Islam’s “natural frame” being closer to 170 than 155.
Bolded key phrase: “Islam Makhachev's move to Welterweight marks a pivotal moment in his UFC career and the broader landscape of the division.”
A Lightweight Division Without Makhachev
Now that the Lightweight belt is officially vacant, the UFC has wasted no time in setting up a blockbuster clash for the crown. Ilia Topuria, fresh off his dominant performance at Featherweight, is moving up to face Charles Oliveira, the former Lightweight champion, in what promises to be a high-level technical war.
This matchup makes sense: Oliveira remains one of the most dangerous submission specialists in UFC history, while Topuria's undefeated streak and elite striking make him a legitimate threat across divisions.
“Topuria is young, fast, and fearless. But Oliveira has walked through fire before,”
as one analyst put it. “This isn’t just a title fight. It’s a crossroads for both men.”
With Islam out of the picture, this new title bout injects fresh energy into the 155-lb division, while still maintaining its elite status.
What’s Driving the Move to 170 lbs?
From a physical standpoint, Makhachev has long been considered a large Lightweight. Many fighters and pundits speculated that he undergoes extreme weight cuts to hit 155. Moving up to Welterweight might simply be a healthier, more sustainable option.
But it’s not just about physicality. It’s about legacy.
Islam has made it clear that he wants to follow in the footsteps of greats like Georges St-Pierre and BJ Penn—fighters who held titles in multiple divisions. After successfully defending his belt more than once, this move can be seen as a calculated leap rather than a reckless jump.
“You can dominate a division, or you can dare to do more. I choose more.”
— Islam Makhachev on his transition to Welterweight.
Welterweight: The Next Challenge
The UFC Welterweight division is anything but tame. Current champ Leon Edwards has a tight grip on the title, and contenders like Belal Muhammad, Shavkat Rakhmonov, and Kamaru Usman (if he returns) pose very real threats.
Can Islam’s grappling-heavy style translate to a bigger, stronger division? That’s the million-dollar question. While his fight IQ, pressure, and transitions are elite, fighters at 170 will naturally be harder to control on the ground.
Still, many believe his fundamentals and mental fortitude could carry him to success.
Bolded key phrase: “Islam Makhachev’s Welterweight campaign could redefine pound-for-pound rankings in 2025.”
Match-Ups We’d Love to See
-
Islam Makhachev vs. Leon Edwards
A stylistic clash of high-level grappler vs. slick striker. This would be a technical masterclass and possibly the most anticipated fight in the division. -
Makhachev vs. Belal Muhammad
Two fighters with iron wills and strong cardio. A true test of endurance and control. -
Makhachev vs. Shavkat Rakhmonov
A future clash between two rising, undefeated prospects could mark a new era for the division.
Each of these fights would test Islam’s ability to impose his will at a heavier weight, and none would be easy wins.
What This Means for MMA Fans
This isn’t just a division change. It’s a shift in UFC storytelling. With Makhachev moving up:
- The Lightweight belt is now up for grabs, injecting fresh tension into the mix.
- Welterweight gets a top-tier contender overnight.
- And fans get the narrative we all love: a champion chasing greatness beyond one division.
“Makhachev’s departure from Lightweight is the end of one era—and the bold start of another.”
How Will Islam Be Remembered at Lightweight?
Though he never achieved the level of mainstream fame Khabib enjoyed, Islam Makhachev’s run at Lightweight was quietly dominant. His technical control, positional awareness, and calm under pressure were elite.
His legacy at 155 will likely be remembered as:
- A fighter who overcame early setbacks (e.g. the Adriano Martins KO) to become one of the most consistent champions.
- A grappling wizard who neutralised even the best strikers.
- And most importantly, a man who never shied away from challenge.
Final Thoughts
Islam Makhachev’s decision to vacate his Lightweight title and move to Welterweight is a brave, calculated risk. In doing so, he joins the elite ranks of fighters daring to chase glory across weight classes. While some may question the timing, few can doubt the ambition.
This bold step marks the start of a new journey—one that could potentially land him as a two-division champion. Whether or not he succeeds, the message is clear:
“Champions hold belts. Greats chase greatness.”
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