Makhachev competed against Jack Della Maddalena for the 170-pound gold last Saturday. Entering the fight, Makhachev was the challenger. It became clear early on that he would be well on his way to winning his second UFC championship thanks to his wrestling.
After the unanimous decision victory, many wondered whether Makhachev would stay at 170 pounds to defend the gold or move back down to lightweight. During the UFC 322 post-fight press conference, Makhachev emphasized that he plans to become a welterweight fighting champion (via MMA Junkie).
“This is the most competitive division right now, welterweight,” Makhachev said at the UFC 322 post-fight press conference. “Definitely, 100 percent, you guys who fought today, and next week some guys are fighting. Also Kamaru (Usman), (Ilia) Topuria: All the killers want to take my belt, but I’m not giving it. I work so hard to be a two-time world champion and I feel like I don’t have to lose much weight today, and I’m going to defend my belt many, many more times.”
Two other welterweights made big statements at UFC 322. Michael Morales scored a first-round TKO finish over Sean Brady, while Carlos Prates knocked out Leon Edwards in the second stanza.
At this point, it’s too early to say exactly who Makhachev’s first welterweight title challenger will be. Many believe Morales made the best argument considering how he defeated someone as skilled as Brady. Time will tell if the UFC brass agrees to book that fight.
As for a potential superfight with UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria, many believe “El Matador” could be up for a title defense to headline UFC’s first show on Paramount+. Topuria’s first title defense hasn’t been made official at this time, but names like Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett have been rumored.
BJPenn.com will keep you updated on what’s next for Islam Makhachev.
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