Islam Makhachev Says He Won't Vacate UFC Lightweight Title If He Moves to Welterweight

UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev said he will not vacate the title if he moves up to welterweight.

Saturday’s main event at UFC 315 features current welterweight champion Belal Muhammad looking to defend his title against Jack Della Maddalena.

If Della Maddalena pulls off the upset, Makhachev will likely move up to the 170-pound welterweight division to challenge him. If not, he is expected to stay at lightweight and defend his title against Ilia Topuria.

Makhachev has defended the lightweight title four times since winning it from Charles Oliveira in October 2022, with back-to-back defenses against Alexander Volkanovski, Dustin Poirier and Renato Moicano—three of the four victories coming by way of TKO or submission.

The 33-year-old holds a 27-1 professional record, taking his sole loss in 2015 against Adriano Martins.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Muhammad told reporters he does not believe Makhachev or the UFC have made any moves behind his back regarding a potential challenge at welterweight.

"No, I don't think they would do that. I talk to Khabib all the time," Muhammed said. Those guys are so big about loyalty and I'm the same way."

While no decisions have been made, a move could be on the horizon that allows Makhachev to pursue a second belt and potentially become a double champion.