One of the most significant developments in the UFC this year is Islam Makhachev’s decision to move up to the welterweight division, vacating his lightweight title. Many fans expected a super fight between Islam and Ilia Topuria, but that matchup never materialized. Instead, the Dagestani star is set to face current welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena. However, before that showdown takes place, another rising welterweight has spoken out, Joaquin Buckley claiming that Islam is deliberately avoiding him.
In a recent conversation with Shak Fu, Buckley shared his belief that the former lightweight champion intentionally avoids certain fighters, including himself. Buckley argued that Islam’s decision to move up in weight is based on favorable matchups, not true dominance. He pointed out that Islam is willing to fight JDM, whom Buckley views as a simpler stylistic challenge.
However, Buckley believes Islam would have avoided moving up if he faced a tougher opponent, especially if Buckley had beaten Belal Muhammad and taken the welterweight belt. According to Buckley, Dana White and Co. know this, so he didn’t get the title shot.
“Islam is only moving up because he had the right opportunity to fight the right person. Even when Belal was champ, I believe if he thought he could beat Belal, he would move up. But stylistically, it would’ve been a harder matchup. But with JDM, he’s a simple fighter,” he said.
Joaquin Buckley reveals why he thinks Islam is scared of him:
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) June 12, 2025
"Islam is only moving up because he had the right opportunity to fight the right person. Even when Belal was champ, I believe if he thought he could beat Belal, he would move up.
But stylistically, it would’ve been a… pic.twitter.com/qtEMFodxva
Joaquin Buckley Doubts Islam Makhachev Making Big Impact At Welterweight
Buckley shared his thoughts on Islam’s move to welterweight at the UFC Atlanta media day. He doesn’t see him as a significant threat in the stacked 170-pound division, which features top names like Ian Garry, Shavkat Rakhmonov, and Sean Brady. Buckley believes he still has a lot to prove at welterweight. He also suggested that if Islam captures the title, he might retire shortly after, seeing it as a legacy-defining move.
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The Dagestani fighter has dominated the lightweight division. Now, with his sights set on capturing a second belt at welterweight, he’s aiming to make history for himself and Team Khabib. No one from their camp has ever held titles in two divisions, making this a monumental move and a potential legacy-defining moment for the Dagestani champion.
Also Read: Belal Muhammad Teases Return On Same PPV As Jack Della Maddalena vs. Islam Makhachev
