Islam Makhachev Eyes Welterweight Title in UFC 322 Showdown

Islam Makhachev is preparing to make a significant leap in his career as he challenges Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight title at UFC 322 on March 16, 2024. Although Makhachev vacated his lightweight championship earlier this year to pursue this opportunity, he maintains that he still embodies the spirit of a champion.

At the pre-fight press conference, Makhachev expressed his confidence, stating, “I feel I’m still champion. I don’t lose my belt to anyone. I’m just coming to get a second one.” His determination is evident as he aims to secure his place in UFC history.

Makhachev made headlines earlier this year by achieving a remarkable feat: he set the record for the most consecutive lightweight title defenses in UFC history, successfully defending his title four times. His final defense came against Renato Moicano at UFC 311 in January 2023. Following this, speculation arose regarding a potential superfight with then-featherweight champion Ilia Topuria. However, Makhachev opted to pursue his dream of becoming a two-division champion.

The path to this welterweight title shot opened up after Della Maddalena claimed the championship by defeating Makhachev’s friend, Belal Muhammad. This development allowed Makhachev to transition to the welterweight division—a move he has long desired. “This is my dream,” Makhachev remarked. “I’m very close to my dream. All my professional career, when I was lightweight champion, my dream was to become double champion. And two more days.”

Should Makhachev emerge victorious on Saturday, he would become only the eleventh two-division champion in UFC history. This achievement would tie him with legendary fighter Anderson Silva for the most consecutive wins in UFC history at 16. Such accolades would enhance Makhachev’s standing in discussions about the greatest fighters of all time, although he is not currently focused on that aspect.

“Oh, I don’t know, man,” Makhachev responded when asked about his legacy. “I’m not thinking about this right now. I’m thinking about the belt. I spent all my life just to be champion, and now I’m close to that dream right now.”

Della Maddalena poses a formidable challenge for Makhachev, entering the fight with an impressive record of 18 consecutive wins. He is coming off what many consider the best performance of his career. Despite this, Makhachev enters the octagon with confidence, having previously defeated notable opponents, including a pair of victories over Alexander Volkanovski and a win against Volkanovski’s teammate, Dan Hooker.

Reflecting on his experiences in Australia, where the fight will take place, Makhachev shared his positive memories: “Australia, it’s a good place. I was there. I like it. Now it’s 3-0, I will make four.”

As UFC 322 approaches, the anticipation continues to build for what promises to be a thrilling encounter between Makhachev and Della Maddalena, with both fighters poised to leave their mark in the welterweight division.