Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Islam Makhachev Aims to Eclipse Former Champion’s Welterweight Reign After UFC 322

Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Islam Makhachev steps into the biggest fight of his career this weekend. On November 15, 2025, he faces Jack Della Maddalena for the UFC welterweight title at UFC 322 in Madison Square Garden. The former lightweight king vacated his 155-pound belt to chase two-division history. At 34, Makhachev carries a 15-fight win streak and pound-for-pound respect, and a win would make him a double champ. A feat very few have accomplished in the UFC.

However, Makhachev is already looking ahead, as he has bold plans for his reign at 170 pounds, looking to beat some challenging records set by former UFC welterweight champion.

Islam Makhachev Eyeing Kamaru Usman’s Record

Makhachev recently stated that he wants to surpass Kamaru Usman’s welterweight legacy. Usman won the strap in 2019 and defended it five times over nearly two years. During the “Nigerian Nightmare’s” reign, he beat Tyron Woodley to take the belt away, then beat Colby Covington twice, Jorge Masvidal twice, and Gilbert Burns, before losing to Leon Edwards via a knockout.

“Win second belt, defend. Maybe more than Kamaru. And to become Hall of Famer, and that’s it.” said Makhachev. Beating Usman’s mark would cement Makhachev as one of the greatest fighters ever, He dominated lightweight with four title defenses and now, he aims to rule welterweight longer and stronger than it was done by Usman.

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Beating Jack Della Maddalena Will Be Makhachev’s Toughest UFC Test Yet

Jack Della Maddalena stands in his way and he’s no easy fight. The Australian champ in on an 18-fight win streak. He took the belt from Belal Muhammad at UFC 315 with a clear decision. And JDM is fast, powerful, big, has a great grappling defense and unbeaten since 2016. His striking is crisp and he’s hungry to prove himself against the best.

The fact remains that it was Makhachev who is moving up a division and not Della Maddalena. The Dagestani fighter has never faced a welterweight like him, and this isn’t just about the belt, it’s the hardest challenge of Makhachev’s UFC run. One mistake, and the dream for welterweight glory could end.

Islam Makhachev

Jack Della Maddalena

Kamaru Usman

Makhachev vs Maddalena

UFC

UFC 322

Eric Divakaran

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