Makhachev becomes a double UFC champ - and Topuria reacts

Islam Makhachev has become the 11th fighter to join the exclusive list of UFC double champions. The Dagestani star, already a historic lightweight titleholder, now reigns as the welterweight king after dethroning Jack Della Maddalena via a dominant unanimous decision (triple 45-30). Khabib Nurmagomedov hoisted his protégé on his shoulders as the crowd roared. “Donald Trump, let’s go! Open the White House, I’m coming,” Makhachev shouted after the win.

Ilia Topuria, who succeeded Makhachev as lightweight champion in June, wasted no time in reacting on social media: “Jack needs an entire camp dedicated just to wrestling. What a disappointment of a champion. You should go to Georgia to learn something. Islam, you need something you can’t train: emotion. You’re the most boring thing in this game. Every day I’m more certain I [will] put you to sleep.”

How Makhachev’s UFC 322 victory played out

Della Maddalena came out swinging, answering Makhachev’s low kicks with crisp punches that forced the Russian to retreat. After trading shots, Islam quickly shot for a takedown, sweeping Jack and landing in top position. From there, Makhachev advanced methodically, taking Della Maddalena’s back before sliding into his guard. Jack fought to survive, using his legs to defend.

In Round 2, Makhachev showcased his kicking game, landing a high kick reminiscent of the one that floored Alexander Volkanovski. Della Maddalena gambled on a hip toss, but it backfired. Islam regained top control in half guard, grinding away with relentless pressure and sharp elbows. Jack burned energy scrambling to his feet in the final seconds.

Della Maddalena threatened in the striking exchanges, but Makhachev’s kicks kept him at bay - a masterclass from Team Nurmagomedov. A brief clinch battle ended with Islam reasserting distance control before taking the fight back to the mat. Jack escaped a D’Arce choke attempt, but the Russian’s shoulder pressure was suffocating, his face contorted in pain as Islam dominated from half guard.

Every strike from Jack carried risk; one misstep meant another takedown. And that’s exactly what happened. Overwhelmed and exhausted, Jack couldn’t stop the Dagestani from hunting the finish. Take every risk you need, his corner urged - five minutes left. But Jack walked out looking defeated. He lasted less than 15 seconds on his feet before Makhachev resumed his ground assault until the final horn.

What’s next?

The stage is set. UFC White House promises to be the biggest event in company history. Fans have been clamoring for Makhachev vs Topuria - the fight of the decade - and it might be closer than ever. The Russian gave his blessing for a summer showdown, and his post-fight comments suggest it’s all but confirmed. It’s only a matter of time.

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