Makhachev’s Move to Welterweight: What Ilia Topuria Must Face to Defend His Lightweight Throne

The UFC landscape has entered a transitional phase where champions are making bold moves across divisions, sparking debates about legacy, dominance, and the future of mixed martial arts. Among these seismic shifts, Islam Makhachev’s decision to vacate his lightweight title and pursue welterweight glory has altered the trajectory of multiple fighters, most notably Ilia Topuria. While Makhachev’s move opens the door to super-fights and double-champ aspirations, it also thrusts Topuria into the spotlight as the man who must carry the lightweight division forward. This article explores what Makhachev’s decision means for Topuria, the opponents looming ahead, and the potential collision course that could redefine UFC history.

Ilia Topuria: The New Face of Lightweight Dominance

When Ilia Topuria captured the lightweight belt, he didn’t just win a title—he inherited the responsibility of leading one of the UFC’s most competitive divisions. His sharp striking, dynamic grappling, and relentless confidence have made him a fan favorite, but the departure of Makhachev from lightweight creates both opportunity and pressure.

• Pound-for-pound status: As of August 19, 2025, Topuria is officially ranked No. 1 in the UFC pound-for-pound rankings, overtaking Makhachev. This accolade comes with heightened scrutiny. Every challenger will now bring not only their skill but also the ambition of dethroning the UFC’s new golden boy.

• The narrative shift: Instead of chasing Makhachev’s legacy in the lightweight division, Topuria must now defend against hungry contenders eager to test him. This sets the stage for defining moments in his career.

Islam Makhachev’s Bold Transition to Welterweight

Islam Makhachev’s decision to leave the lightweight division sent shockwaves throughout the MMA world. Having established himself as the successor to Khabib Nurmagomedov, Makhachev dominated the division with his smothering grappling and evolving striking. Yet, like many great champions, he sought a new mountain to climb.

• The next challenge: Makhachev is now set to face Jack Della Maddalena, the reigning welterweight champion, at UFC 322 in Madison Square Garden this November. This bout will determine whether Makhachev can etch his name alongside legends who captured titles in multiple divisions.

• Why welterweight? The move frees Makhachev from grueling weight cuts at 155 pounds, while also positioning him for blockbuster pay-per-view fights. It’s a calculated risk, one that could solidify his legacy as one of the most versatile champions in UFC history.

What This Means for Topuria

With Makhachev’s departure, Topuria doesn’t have the luxury of waiting for a dream matchup. The UFC lightweight division is loaded with killers, and contenders are lining up to seize their chance.

Arman Tsarukyan: The Immediate Threat

• Top contender: Ranked No. 2 in the lightweight division, Tsarukyan has emerged as the most logical challenger for Topuria. He already has experience preparing for title bouts, having served as a backup fighter at UFC 317.

• Makhachev’s endorsement: Even Makhachev himself has suggested that Tsarukyan is the rightful challenger for Topuria. Tsarukyan’s youth, athleticism, and ability to cut weight effectively make him a dangerous matchup.

• Stylistic clash: Topuria’s striking and submission threats will be tested against Tsarukyan’s wrestling-heavy approach. This fight could mirror the classic striker-versus-grappler narrative that has defined many UFC title bouts.

Other Lightweight Contenders

• Charles Oliveira: The former champion is still a lurking threat with his record-setting submission skills and battle-tested resume.

• Justin Gaethje: Known for his knockout power and relentless pace, Gaethje remains a wildcard who could provide a high-profile, fan-friendly fight for Topuria.

• Mateusz Gamrot: A rising star with versatile grappling, Gamrot has the skillset to disrupt anyone in the division.

The Timing Issue

Topuria may not return to action until January or February of 2026, which creates an opening for contenders like Tsarukyan to gain momentum. The UFC could seize this window to build hype around a major title defense.

The Super-Fight Potential: Topuria vs. Makhachev

While their paths are temporarily diverging, the possibility of a Topuria vs. Makhachev super-fight looms large. UFC President Dana White has acknowledged that if Makhachev captures the welterweight belt, a clash between him and Topuria would be monumental.

• Dual champion stakes: The fight would pit a reigning lightweight champion against a welterweight titleholder, with the potential to crown a double champion.

• Pay-per-view blockbuster: Analysts predict that this matchup could even rival heavyweight mega-fights like Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall in terms of hype and sales.

• Legacy implications: For Topuria, defeating Makhachev would cement him as one of the greatest fighters of his era. For Makhachev, conquering a new division and then returning to face the new king at lightweight would enhance his already legendary trajectory.

Expert and Fighter Perspectives

Henry Cejudo’s Take

Former UFC double champion Henry Cejudo has gone on record to say that a potential clash between Topuria and Makhachev could surpass even the biggest fights of 2025. According to Cejudo, the stylistic intrigue, combined with their dominance, makes this bout irresistible.

Dana White’s Caution

Dana White has been careful not to over-promise. While he acknowledges the allure of Topuria vs. Makhachev, he insists that Topuria must first prove himself as a defending champion in the lightweight division. This ensures that when the super-fight eventually materializes, it carries maximum legitimacy.

The Fans’ Perspective

Fans are split. Some want to see Topuria immediately tested against Tsarukyan, while others believe waiting for Makhachev is worth the gamble. Social media chatter reflects both excitement and skepticism about how soon the dream fight could happen.

The Current Rankings Landscape

As of the latest UFC rankings:

• Ilia Topuria: Lightweight champion, No. 1 pound-for-pound.

• Islam Makhachev: Moving to welterweight, No. 2 pound-for-pound.

• Arman Tsarukyan: Lightweight No. 2 contender, knocking on the door of a title shot.

This structure means that Topuria has a clear path: defend against Tsarukyan, solidify his dominance, and then look to the horizon for the super-fight.

Broader Implications for the Lightweight Division

Makhachev’s exit reshapes the lightweight narrative:

• New rivalries: With Makhachev gone, fighters like Oliveira, Gaethje, and Tsarukyan can carve new rivalries with Topuria.

• Division stability: Topuria’s reign will determine whether the division remains compelling or enters a transitional lull.

• Marketing angle: The UFC can now market Topuria as the young champion tasked with defending his crown against the most dangerous lineup in the sport.

Conclusion

Islam Makhachev’s decision to leave the lightweight division has shifted the balance of power in the UFC. While Makhachev chases welterweight glory and the allure of becoming a two-division champion, Ilia Topuria is left to prove that he can hold his ground as the face of the lightweight class. His most immediate challenge is likely Arman Tsarukyan, but beyond that lies a series of dangerous contenders and the tantalizing prospect of a super-fight with Makhachev.

For now, the message is clear: Topuria’s journey has only just begun. To earn his legacy and keep the lightweight division thriving, he must defend, adapt, and prepare for the storm of challengers ahead.