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6d ago

UFC Books Topuria vs. Oliveira for Lightweight Title as Makhachev Pursues Welterweight Crown

Islam Makhachev commits to fighting Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight belt while retaining his lightweight title, prompting the UFC to vacate the lightweight championship.

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MADRID, SPAIN - MARCH 29: UFC fighter Ilia Topuria during press conference after WOW 17 at Madrid Arena on March 29, 2025 in Madrid, Spain.

Overview

  • Islam Makhachev has officially declared his intent to challenge Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight title without relinquishing his lightweight championship.
  • Dana White announced Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira as the main event for UFC 317, with the vacant lightweight title on the line.
  • Topuria previously vacated his featherweight belt after one defense to pursue lightweight opportunities and now faces Oliveira, a former lightweight champion, in a pivotal matchup.
  • The UFC has yet to finalize the headliner for International Fight Week, leaving uncertainty about whether Makhachev vs. Della Maddalena will occur this summer.
  • Contenders like Sean Brady and Ian Garry are positioning themselves for future welterweight title opportunities amid the division's evolving landscape.