UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev, widely regarded as the #1 pound-for-pound fighter globally, might face a substantial challenge if he decides to move up in weight. Speculation is growing about a potential welterweight clash against Jack Della Maddalena.
Makhachev has publicly considered a move to the welterweight division for some time. With the welterweight landscape shifting, particularly after UFC 315, a challenge for the 170-pound title appears to be on his radar. Reports indicate Makhachev may have even vacated his lightweight belt, paving the way for a division change.
Known for his versatile skillset, Makhachev has defended his lightweight title successfully against top contenders, including wins over current featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski and former lightweights Charles Oliveira, Dustin Poirier, and Renato Moicano.
While his lightweight dominance is clear, one former UFC title challenger has voiced concerns about how Makhachev`s power and durability will fare against larger opponents in the welterweight division.
Kenny Florian Questions Islam Makhachev`s Strength and Durability at Welterweight
Kenny Florian, a veteran UFC fighter and current analyst who notably competed across multiple weight classes during his career (middleweight, welterweight, lightweight, and featherweight), shared his perspective.
Florian, who fought for lightweight and featherweight titles against BJ Penn and Jose Aldo, understands the demands of competing in different divisions.
Speaking on the potential matchup between Makhachev and hard-hitting welterweight Jack Della Maddalena, Florian offered his analysis on the Anik & Florian Podcast:
“Based on his grappling and well roundedness and experience, I think that he could definitely pose some problems for JDM,” Florian acknowledged regarding Makhachev`s skills.
However, he added a crucial caveat: “I would say this—I don’t think he could dole out the same level of power as some of the 170lbers, and I also don’t think he can take [or] withstand the same kind of shots.”
Florian emphasized the difference in power at welterweight, referencing Belal Muhammad`s toughness in his recent fight. “I have a hard time believing that there’s any 155er in the world that could take the same kind of shots that Belal Muhammad took in that fight on Saturday night. Belal has a legendary chin at this point.”
Recalling a specific moment, he noted, “There was a series of three right hands. I have chills thinking about it that Belal ate [it], and he kept coming forward. I was just thinking, how the hell did he take one of those, let alone three? I don’t see any lightweight in the world taking those shots.”
Florian concluded by stressing the physical impact of moving up, stating, “I can’t stress this enough. Every pound matters in this sport… There’s a 15 pound difference between 155 and 170, not 10 pounds, and that matters for a lot.”
How Have Other Lightweight Stars Fared at Welterweight?
Over the years, several prominent lightweights have transitioned to the welterweight division with varying degrees of success.
Former UFC Lightweight Champion Rafael Dos Anjos moved up and achieved notable success early on, winning his first three fights against established contenders, including a former champion in Robbie Lawler.
Gilbert Burns, who previously competed at lightweight, truly made his mark in the welterweight division, securing four consecutive wins to earn a title shot against the dominant Kamaru Usman.
Conversely, former lightweight title challenger Kevin Lee`s move to welterweight proved less successful, as he went 0-3 in appearances at 170 pounds.
While Islam Makhachev is undoubtedly an elite-level fighter, the question of how his skills, particularly his striking power and chin, will translate against the physically larger and harder-hitting athletes of the welterweight division, such as Jack Della Maddalena, remains to be seen.
Gareth Tenby