In one other world, Islam Makhachev’s subsequent title battle would have headlined UFC 324.
His UFC debut at Paramount is ready for January twenty fourth. An interim light-weight title battle between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje is ready to headline, however it does not seem like the UFC’s first alternative.
Islam Makhachev spoke with Ushataika and revealed that he had a suggestion, however he turned it down (h/t MMAJunkie).
“I used to be supplied a battle in January,” Makhachev stated. “I feel January is an unattainable date as a result of I had already been in camp for 3 months and so they known as me in December and so they had been like, ‘You are going to battle in January.'” He stated it was too late. We wanted to depart for camp and prepare for January. I advised him in January that I might by no means battle. ”
Makhachev couldn’t give a transparent reply as to who his opponent could be, however did reveal potential names.
“They did not inform me the title, however to be sincere, I feel it was (Michael) Morales,” Makhachev stated. “That is my opinion. They did not say a reputation, they only requested if I might battle in January.”
Morales introduced consideration to the welterweight division with a first-round TKO over Sean Brady, who was extremely considered the favourite to win the title. This match occurred on the identical card the place Makhachev additional etched his title into historical past.
Makhachev added his title to the checklist of fighters to win two-division titles at UFC 322 in November. He confirmed an ideal efficiency towards Jacques Della Maddalena and have become the brand new UFC welterweight champion.
A lot has been debated about Makhachev’s future. The champion is hoping to defend his title towards former champion Kamaru Usman, however the favorites throughout the MMA neighborhood are main contenders Morales and Ian Machado-Galley. Shavkat Rakhmonov was probably the most supreme candidate, however he missed all of 2025 on account of harm.
