Della Maddalena claims title as lineal BMF champion

A titleholder disputes Ilia Topuria's claim to the BMF belt, stirring controversy in the UFC.

Jack Della Maddalena claims to be the true BMF champion after UFC 318

At UFC 318, Max Holloway defended the BMF title against Dustin Poirier in a thrilling five-round match. Following the event, Ilia Topuria controversially declared on social media that the BMF belt still belongs to him while sharing an image of his replica title. The BMF title has a unique lineage, as it is not automatically contested during the champion’s fights. Enter Jack Della Maddalena, who has staked his claim to the lineal BMF title based on his achievement in the welterweight division, asserting that the belt has never truly left his class. Della Maddalena's statement seems to challenge not just Topuria but also underscore the complexities of the BMF title’s history, especially since Max Holloway is seeking to introduce official rankings for this unique championship.

The back-and-forth between Della Maddalena and Topuria highlights the ongoing tensions within the UFC regarding title history and legitimacy. Holloway's desire for structure in the BMF title narrative reflects a broader need for clarity in championship protocols. The division between lineal lineage and current title holders puts both the fighters and fans in a complicated position, as debates over rightful ownership of titles can overshadow athletic achievements. Della Maddalena's claim might attract scrutiny but also offers an opportunity for discussing how the UFC can evolve its championship criteria. The call for more systematic ranking could lead to a clearer path for contenders, especially in non-traditional belts like the BMF.

Highlights

The ongoing discussions about the BMF title could shape future title contention in the UFC.