Makhachev Reveals Next Fight

Makhachev Targets August, Names Surprising Opponent

The UFC lightweight division has a new target, and it’s a name no one saw coming. Champion Islam Makhachev has broken his silence on his next move, revealing he’s gearing up for an August return and has his sights set on an opponent from a different weight class entirely. In a recent interview with TNT Sports, the Dagestani powerhouse left little room for interpretation when asked who he wants next.

“A lot of contenders,” Makhachev acknowledged, before dropping the bombshell. “But number one is Ian Garry.” The callout is a stunner, as Garry is an undefeated, top-ranked contender in the welterweight division. While Makhachev has spoken of moving up to 170 lbs eventually, challenging a top contender there while still holding the 155 lb belt would be a massive statement. “Right after here, I’m going to the camp and… August, I will be ready,” he confirmed. The matchup is far from official, but with the champion himself naming Garry, the MMA world is already buzzing about a potential superfight.

A Champion's Heart: A Call to a Fan

While his fighting plans are making headlines, Makhachev recently showed the world the man behind the belt. In a heartwarming moment shared on social media, the champion took time to FaceTime a fan named Valentin who is currently battling cancer. Valentin, a huge supporter of both Islam and his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov, was wearing a Makhachev t-shirt during the call.

Makhachev’s team arranged the surprise, and the champion didn’t disappoint. He graciously invited Valentin to be his guest at his next fight, further confirming the August timeline he mentioned in his interview. “He also promised to give him a bunch of t-shirts after the fight,” the transcript noted. It was a class act from Makhachev and his team, offering a moment of joy and a powerful invitation to a fan during a difficult time. We’re all wishing Valentin a strong and speedy recovery.

Makhachev's Take on McGregor vs. Holloway

With the entire sport anticipating the return of Conor McGregor against Max Holloway at UFC 329 in July, everyone has an opinion—including the lightweight champion. Given the long and bitter rivalry between Makhachev’s camp and McGregor, many expected fireworks. However, Makhachev took a surprisingly civil and analytical approach.

“Yeah, it’s good. It’s good. Big name for our sport,” Islam said of McGregor’s return, acknowledging the Irishman’s star power. But when it came to a prediction, he was clear about who he sees winning the blockbuster fight. “But he have a tough opponent. Max Holloway against Connor. I think Max can beat him.” It’s a measured response from the champ, who sees the former featherweight king as having the edge over McGregor in their highly anticipated rematch.

From Abu Dhabi to the White House: UFC's Stacked Summer

Makhachev’s potential August return is just one piece of a massive summer the UFC has planned. The promotion recently announced the main and co-main events for its Fight Night card in Abu Dhabi on July 25th. The headliner will see a pivotal light heavyweight clash between Magomed Ankalaev and Khalil Rountree Jr., while the co-main features the return of bantamweight phenom Umar Nurmagomedov against David Martinez.

Meanwhile, stateside, the hype is reaching a fever pitch for the unprecedented UFC event at the White House. Construction is well underway for the historic card, which has drawn praise from former President Donald Trump, who called it potentially “one of the biggest sporting events ever.” Fighters are already in deep preparation, with Michael Chandler sharing videos of his intense training, acclimating to the D.C. heat and even the local insects. From international fight nights to historic events on the White House lawn, the UFC is set for an unforgettable summer.