The highly anticipated next bout for former UFC Featherweight Champion Ilia Topuria has been clarified. Topuria, who recently moved up to the Lightweight division, is set to challenge for the title, potentially against current champion Islam Makhachev, the current Pound-for-Pound No. 1 fighter. However, the path to this potential showdown depends on the outcome of the upcoming UFC 315 main event.
The welterweight title fight between Belal Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena will determine Topuria’s next opponent. If Muhammad retains his title, Topuria will face Makhachev for the Lightweight championship. Conversely, if Della Maddalena wins, Makhachev will vacate the Lightweight title and challenge for the Welterweight championship, paving the way for Topuria to face Charles Oliveira for the vacant Lightweight title.
UFC CEO Dana White confirmed this plan during the pre-event press conference, stating that Topuria’s outlined pathway is “pretty accurate.” The fate of the potential Topuria-Makhachev bout now rests on the outcome of UFC 315, scheduled for this Saturday, May 10, 2025.
🚨 Dana White confirms that the winner of Belal Muhammad vs Jack Della Maddalena will determine whether Ilia Topuria fights Islam Makhachev or Charles Oliveira at #UFC317 👀
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) May 8, 2025
"There's a lot of moving parts right now, and that's pretty accurate."pic.twitter.com/7JOC5a1WCz
While the odds favor Belal Muhammad, Della Maddalena’s title aspirations and motivation could potentially disrupt the planned matchup. A victory for Della Maddalena would significantly alter the Lightweight division’s landscape, setting up a intriguing bout between Topuria and Oliveira for the vacant title.

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The potential matchup between Topuria and Makhachev has generated significant interest among fans, with many eagerly anticipating the possibility of these two talented fighters facing off. If Muhammad retains his title, the stage would be set for a highly anticipated showdown between Topuria and Makhachev.
On the other hand, a win for Della Maddalena would not only change the welterweight division’s landscape but also create a new path for Topuria. The possibility of Topuria facing Oliveira would add another layer of excitement to the Lightweight division, as both fighters are known for their skills and determination.
As the UFC 315 event approaches, fans are eagerly awaiting the outcome of the welterweight title fight. The decision will not only determine the fate of Belal Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena but also shape the future of the Lightweight division. With the potential for a new titleholder and a shift in the division’s dynamics, UFC 315 promises to be an exciting and pivotal event in the world of mixed martial arts.
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