Dan Hardy backs UFC welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena against Islam Makhachev. Della Maddalena (18-2 MMA, 8-0 UFC) impressed Hardy in his title-winning performance against Belal Muhammad (24-4 MMA,

“I think I can land a lot of shots and I think I can take him out. Advertisement Stuff the takedowns. If I get taken down, I believe I can get back to my feet ...

After Belal Muhammad was dethroned by Jack Della Maddalena, Dagestani star Islam Makhachev had no hesitation moving up a weight class. In pursuit of a second belt, Makhachev vacated his lightweight title. Meanwhile, Spain’s Ilia Topuria — also chasing double-champ status — will now get his shot at lightweight gold this summer.

As we know, Islam Makhachev has decided to vacate the UFC lightweight championship and move to the welterweight division. He will challenge Jack Della Maddalena for the undisputed 170-pound title, with the decision being made after JDM was able to win the belt from Belal Muhammad at UFC 315.

UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev finds himself embroiled in controversy following Jack Della Maddalena’s upset victory over Belal Muhammad at UFC 315. His interest in moving up to welterweight was not a secret.

Former UFC champ shuts down rumors of Islam Makhachev wishing Belal Muhammad to lose, clarifying his true stance and intentions.

Being one of the greatest in UFC history is difficult, considering how many legendary champions have already set high standards. The post No Longevity? Islam Makhachev’s Greatness Questioned by Jon Jones and Nate Diaz appeared first on FirstSportz.

The events of this past week helped settle the lightweight-welterweight stalemate in the UFC. Belal Muhammad’s loss at UFC 315 opened up the opportunity for Islam Makhachev to move up to welterweight—one he has been waiting for a long time.