The MMA world is buzzing with speculation and tension as the fates of four elite UFC fighters—Islam Makhachev, Ilia Topuria, Belal Muhammad, and Charles Oliveira—become deeply intertwined.
After the action-packed UFC 315, the landscape of both the lightweight and welterweight divisions is being reshaped in real time.
🔀 The Stakes: UFC 315 Shakes Up Three Divisions
UFC President Dana White confirmed that the outcome of the Belal Muhammad vs. Jack Della Maddalena bout at UFC 315 would directly affect future title fights involving Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev.
📌 Scenario 1 – Belal Muhammad Wins
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Makhachev remains at lightweight and defends his belt against Ilia Topuria at UFC 317, scheduled for June 28 during International Fight Week in Las Vegas.
📌 Scenario 2 – Della Maddalena Wins
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Makhachev moves up to welterweight to challenge Della Maddalena.
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Topuria faces Charles Oliveira for the vacant or interim lightweight title.
These scenarios could lead to Makhachev holding dual titles—an achievement few UFC fighters have managed.
🦁 Ilia Topuria: The Featherweight King Eyes Lightweight Gold
After dethroning Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway via devastating knockouts, Ilia Topuria vacated his featherweight title and announced his move to lightweight.
He is already confirmed to headline UFC 317, but his opponent depends on the fallout from UFC 315.
Frustrated with delays, Topuria recently criticized Makhachev’s hesitation to move up in weight, claiming it’s stalling the lightweight division.
🧠 Islam Makhachev: Caught Between Two Titles
The reigning lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, has hinted at jumping to 170 lbs—but wants to retain his lightweight belt and possibly become a two-division UFC champion.
His decision hinges on the result of UFC 315. A win for Belal means staying put. A win for Della Maddalena means history could be made.
🇧🇷 Charles Oliveira: Brazil’s Last Lightweight King Ready to Rise Again
If Makhachev vacates or delays his defense, Charles “Do Bronx” Oliveira is next in line to face Topuria for the lightweight strap.
The Brazilian fan-favorite and former champion is eager for redemption and another title run—especially after his comeback win earlier this year.
📅 What’s Next? Key Dates to Watch
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🗓 UFC 315 (May 10, 2025): Belal Muhammad vs. Jack Della Maddalena
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🗓 UFC 317 (June 28, 2025): Ilia Topuria vs. TBD – either Islam Makhachev or Charles Oliveira
The next few weeks will determine the direction of two divisions and may mark a new era in UFC history.