Overview

• Islam Makhachev has accepted Jack Della Maddalena's challenge for the UFC welterweight title but insists on retaining his lightweight championship.
• Dana White is deliberating options, including allowing Makhachev to hold both titles, creating an interim lightweight belt, or stripping him of the 155-pound crown.
• Michael Bisping advocates for Makhachev's dual-title pursuit while proposing an interim lightweight title fight between Charles Oliveira and Ilia Topuria to maintain division momentum.
• Jack Della Maddalena, fresh off his UFC 315 victory, aims to defend his welterweight belt against Makhachev, while analysts like Dan Hardy question Makhachev's ability to succeed at 170 pounds.
• Behind the scenes, Dana White has assured Maddalena and matchmaker Hunter Campbell that the situation will be resolved, as the UFC navigates the implications for both divisions.