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Islam Makhachev has once again stunned the UFC. In a decision that will reshape both the lightweight and welterweight divisions, the mixed martial arts star has vacated his 155-pound title to take on a new challenge at welterweight.
Makhachev reigned over the lightweight division with an iron grip for more than two years. After defeating Charles Oliveira in October 2022 to claim the belt, he successfully defended his title against Alexander Volkanovski-twice-before securing additional victories over Dustin Poirier and Renato Moicano.
With the division firmly under his control, Makhachev relinquished the belt, as announced by UFC CEO Dana White. His next move? A showdown with Australian Jack Della Maddalena, the reigning 177-pound champion. The fight's date and location are yet to be determined.
What this means for the UFC
Makhachev's decision has sent shockwaves through two divisions. Not only has it set the stage for an electrifying clash with Della Maddalena, but it has also left the lightweight belt up for grabs for the first time in two years.
During a press conference, White revealed several major UFC summer matchups, including the UFC 317 main event: Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title.
Much like Makhachev, Topuria previously relinquished his featherweight championship this past February in pursuit of lightweight success. Oliveira, who once lost his belt to Makhachev, will now battle Topuria after a two-year absence from title contention.
A monumental summer for the UFC
UFC 317 on May 17 will also feature flyweight champion Alexander Pantoja defending his belt against Kai Kara- in a rematch of their exhibition bout from The Ultimate Fighter 24.
Three months later at UFC 319 in Chicago, Dricus du Plessis will make his third middleweight title defense against undefeated super-contender Khamzat Chimaev.
Makhachev's decision has set massive changes in motion for the UFC. How the divisions evolve-and whether the Russian fighter can conquer yet another weight class-remains to be seen.