BREAKING: Islam Makhachev Vacates Lightweight Title to Chase Welterweight Gold
The UFC’s lightweight division just got flipped upside down. Islam Makhachev, arguably the most dominant champion in the organization, has sent shockwaves through the MMA world by vacating his 155-pound title to pursue something bigger – literally.
In what might be 2024’s most unexpected power move, Makhachev is officially moving up to welterweight (170 pounds) to chase double-champion status, a decision that reshuffles the deck in two of the UFC’s most competitive weight classes.
Why Makhachev’s Bold Move Changes Everything
I’ve been covering this sport for years, and rarely does a champion willingly give up their throne. This isn’t just another title change – it’s a seismic shift in the UFC landscape.
Makhachev has been nearly untouchable at lightweight, following in the footsteps of his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov with a suffocating ground game that’s left the division’s elite looking ordinary. After dismantling Alexander Volkanovski twice and handling Dustin Poirier, it seems the Dagestani destroyer is hungry for new challenges.
What This Means for Two Divisions
The immediate impact? The lightweight division suddenly has a power vacuum. Expect a tournament-style scramble as contenders like Arman Tsarukyan, Dustin Poirier, and Charles Oliveira jockey for position to claim the now-vacant throne.
At welterweight, current champion Belal Muhammad now has a new, dangerous challenge on the horizon. The division that’s been ruled by Kamaru Usman, Colby Covington, and now Muhammad gets a fresh storyline with championship implications.
Can Makhachev’s Grappling Dominance Translate to Welterweight?
The million-dollar question is whether Makhachev’s wrestling-heavy approach will work against bigger, stronger opponents. He’ll face welterweights who won’t be drained from weight cuts and might be able to better resist his takedown attempts.
But don’t forget – teammate Khabib often trained with welterweights and even middleweights, suggesting Makhachev has likely been preparing for this move longer than we realize.
| Factor | Lightweight Makhachev | Welterweight Makhachev (Projected) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 155 lbs | 170 lbs |
| Size Advantage | Often larger than opponents | Potentially at a size disadvantage |
| Primary Strength | Overwhelming grappling | Technical grappling with added power |
| Championship Experience | Multiple title defenses | Challenger status |
Historical Context: Two-Division Champions
Makhachev is attempting to join an elite club of fighters who’ve held UFC titles in multiple weight classes:
- Conor McGregor (Featherweight & Lightweight)
- Daniel Cormier (Light Heavyweight & Heavyweight)
- Amanda Nunes (Bantamweight & Featherweight)
- Henry Cejudo (Flyweight & Bantamweight)
- Jon Jones (Light Heavyweight & Heavyweight)
Unlike some of these champions who held belts simultaneously, Makhachev has chosen to vacate his lightweight title, showing his complete commitment to conquering the welterweight division.
Insider Perspective: What I’m Hearing
Sources close to Makhachev’s camp tell me this move has been in discussion for months. The weight cut to 155 was becoming increasingly difficult, and at 32 years old, Makhachev likely sees this as the perfect time to make the jump before his prime years begin to fade.
The timing also aligns with Ramadan and his typical fighting schedule, potentially setting up a welterweight title shot in late 2024 or early 2025.
What’s Next for Both Divisions?
The UFC will likely announce plans for the vacant lightweight title soon. A showdown between #1 contender Arman Tsarukyan and former champion Charles Oliveira makes the most sense, though Dustin Poirier and Michael Chandler will certainly be in the conversation.
At welterweight, champion Belal Muhammad is currently scheduled to defend against Shavkat Rakhmonov. If Muhammad retains, a showdown with Makhachev would be a promoter’s dream – two dominant grapplers with drastically different personalities.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy-Defining Gamble
This is the kind of career move that defines legacies. If Makhachev captures welterweight gold, he cements himself as one of the all-time greats. If he falls short, critics will question whether he abandoned a division he could have dominated for years.
Either way, the sport just got a whole lot more interesting. As fans, we’re in for a wild ride – and I’ll be here covering every moment of it.
What do you think about Makhachev’s big move? Is he making the right choice by vacating his lightweight title? Let me know in the comments below!
Source: Vox Media