This past weekend, at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City, Islam Makhachev completed two historic feats in a single fight. He defeated Jack Della Maddalena via unanimous decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45) to capture the UFC Welterweight Championship, his second belt. With that win, Makhachev joined the elite ranks as only the 11th fighter in UFC history to win titles in two divisions.
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But that wasn’t all. The victory also extended his win streak to 16 consecutive UFC wins, thereby tying the long-standing record of Anderson Silva for the longest win streak in UFC history.
Claiming Two Belts
Makhachev’s path to this moment was planned well. Having dominated the lightweight division, defending the title four times (the most in lightweight history) before vacating it earlier this year, he moved up in weight to challenge Della Maddalena for the welterweight strap. His win in New York not only secured a new championship but also solidified his reputation as one of the most complete fighters in the sport.
Becoming a two-division champion is rare. Makhachev’s accomplishment places him firmly in the company of legends and underscores his ambition and execution at the highest levels.
Tying a Legendary Win Streak
Equally significant is his win‐streak milestone. With 16 straight victories, Makhachev matched Anderson Silva’s UFC record. In a sport where consistency is as rare as brilliance, this achievement speaks to his discipline, adaptability and dominance.
The way he handled Della Maddalena, using wrestling, top control, and leg kicks to nullify the champion’s strengths, showed that Makhachev’s success is no accident. He looked timed, measured and impossible to beat.
Why It Matters
- Legacy Shift: This night reshapes Makhachev’s narrative from lightweight king to MMA royalty.
- Pound-for-Pound Status: By collecting a second title and tying the win-streak record, he strengthens his claim to being among the best in the world, across weight classes.
- For the Division: Welterweight now has a new figurehead, one whose skills include elite wrestling, submissions and a growing striking ceiling.
- For Matchmaking: With these credentials, the fights ahead carry even more weight. Makhachev’s next challengers must now not only beat a champion, but topple a record-tying streak.
