UFC shaken as superstar vacates belt to target new Aussie champion in different weight class
Islam Makhachev has vacated the UFC lightweight title and will pursue new Aussie champion Jack Della Maddalena in the welterweight class.
Speaking on Instagram live, UFC CEO Dana White confirmed the news among many updates for UFC 317 in June.
The Aussie welcomed a fight with Makhachev in the aftermath of winning the welterweight title from Belal Muhammad last week. Makhachev said he would not move up to the division until his friend Muhammad dropped the belt.
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Jack Della Maddalena wins the welteweight belt Getty
White has confirmed that both fighters have agreed to the bout, with Della Maddalena pushing for it to be held in Australia.
The fight will likely take place later in 2025, with Makhachev needing to prepare for the move to 170 pounds.
Ilia Topuria will now fight Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 for the vacated lightweight belt, White also confirmed.
New Zealand flyweight Kai Kara France will face Alexandre Pantoja for the flyweight title on the same card.
