There is an undeniable air of excitement encapsulating the UFC universe, driving fan engagement and instigating unprecedented anticipation. This new energy is primarily fueled by reigning champions moving through weight classes in a bid for more demanding conquests. One such instance is Islam Makhachev, the stalwart UFC champion, who recently made public his decision to make a foray into the welterweight division, with an eye on securing a second title. His trajectory puts him squarely on the path to clash with the formidable Jack Della Maddalena.
In an unexpected twist, UFC legend Derek Brunson opposed Makhachev’s decision and instead counselled him to stick to the 155 lbs category. This might seem unusual given that change of weight and ensuing disagreements are part and parcel of combat sports dynamics, however, Brunson’s suggestion carries significant weight. Makhachev has repeatedly hinted at moving up to the welterweight division and recently vacated his lightweight title to accountable his new career direction.
There’s a growing cohort of emerging talents in the welterweight division, including firebrands like Ian Garry, Joaquin Buckley, among others. Given the increasing competition and presence of raw yet potent talent in the welterweight zone, Brunson is urging Makhachev to reassess his decision. He made his advice public via an X post highlighting the rising stars in the division and suggesting that it’s not too late for Makhachev to remain in his original weight class.
Jack Della Maddalena, the new welterweight title-holder, beat Belal Muhammad to ascend the throne. As new names come to light from recent championships, fans are backing these contenders, convinced they are capable of meeting – and possibly surpassing – the challenge posed by the title. Their relentless power and combat abilities could prove to be a formidable hurdle for Makhachev in his future endeavours.
The allure of dual championships — or the ‘double champ’ status — is an elusive dream lusted after by many in the fight industry. However, UFC’s new regulations stipulate that fighters must relinquish their existing titles before venturing into higher weight classes. Makhachev complied, vacating his lightweight title with hopes of a second title in the welterweight division.
In an interesting turn of events, another renowned face in the UFC, Henry Cejudo, questioned Makhachev’s pursuit. Cejudo underlined the distinction between being a multi-division champion and a genuine ‘double champ’ who holds two titles simultaneously. Cejudo asserted this point on the Pound4Pound show, implying that without two titles held concurrently, the ‘double champ’ status might be misleading.
He pointed out examples of bona fide ‘double champs’, such as Conor McGregor, Amanda Nunes, Daniel Cormier, and himself, Henry Cejudo. Each of these fighters exemplified the unique achievement of carrying two championships on their shoulders, quite literally. This observation influenced Cejudo’s opinion that Makhachev, akin to Ilia Topuria, should have retained his belt.
However, the UFC’s amended regulations now mandate fighters to forfeit their current titles before stepping up the weight class. This rule modification, although essential for maintaining the structure within the UFC, restricts contenders’ ability to aspire to a true ‘double champ’ status, one that holds multiple titles simultaneously. This remains the central challenge that fighters like Islam Makhachev have to brave as they embark on their quest for greater glory.
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