Talks of a behind-the-scenes push for Islam Makhachev to jump to Belal Muhammad’s division grew after Hunter Campbell’s recent visit to Dagestan. The UFC executive was photographed with Makhachev and his manager, Rizvan Magomedov.
Given Campbell’s known role in brokering key fights, fans and analysts speculated that a welterweight move for the UFC Lightweight Champion could be underway.
Belal Muhammad Denies UFC Made Secret Plans About Islam Makhachev
Belal Muhammad has responded to the speculation surrounding Makhachev’s potential move to welterweight and whether the UFC initiated discussions without his knowledge. “Remember The Name” insists no such secret deal is being made.
”No, I don’t think they would do that,” Muhammad said at the UFC 315 media day. “I talk to Khabib [Nurmagomedov] all the time. He even messaged me the other day. Like I said, those guys are so big about loyalty, and I’m the same way.”
Belal Muhammad reacts to Hunter Campbell's trip to Dagestan and doesn't think Islam Makhachev's welterweight move is being planned behind his back.
"No, I don't think they would do that. I talk to Khabib all the time." pic.twitter.com/GkcvG22Bp6
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) May 7, 2025
While Makhachev has expressed interest in moving up a weight class to chase double-champion status, he has also been clear about not wanting to fight Muhammad. The two share a tight-knit brotherly relationship rooted in their time training under Nurmagomedov, and both have stated their unwillingness to compete against one another.
Despite this, Makhachev’s ambitions remain a topic of debate. Though he has been linked to a possible showdown with Ilia Topuria at UFC 317, the Dagestani star has shown little interest in the matchup.
Topuria recently vacated his featherweight title to pursue lightweight gold, but Makhachev seems more inclined to test himself at welterweight, pending the outcome of this weekend’s title bout.
Belal Muhammad Set for First Title Defense Against Jack Della Maddalena
Before Makhachev can make any serious leap to welterweight, all eyes will be on UFC 315, where Muhammad defends his welterweight crown for the first time. Standing in his way is rising Australian contender Jack Della Maddalena, who brings an undefeated UFC record and surging momentum into the clash.
Muhammad, who captured the belt by outclassing Leon Edwards in Manchester last year, is riding a six-fight win streak and is unbeaten in his last 11. Known for his relentless pace and grappling dominance, the Chicago native has overwhelmed a series of elite contenders to reach the top.
Della Maddalena, a Dana White’s Contender Series product, has finished five of his seven UFC fights. He proved his mettle with recent gritty wins over Bassil Hafez, Kevin Holland, and a dramatic comeback victory against Gilbert Burns. The Australian brings technical striking and composure under pressure into the Octagon.
While the bout may appear on paper as a classic striker vs. grappler matchup, both men have proven to be far more complete fighters. With championship implications stretching beyond the belt—particularly regarding Makhachev’s future—UFC 315’s welterweight main event may have ripple effects across two divisions.