UFC champion Islam Makhachev looks set to make his first title defense in August, according to UFC president Dana White.
White says August is likely
There had been talk that Makhachev would defend his belt on July 11 during International Fight Week in Las Vegas. Manager Ali Abdelaziz told UFCcoverage that Islam had been offered a different bout at welterweight and was open to a July date. But White cleared that up on social media, writing on an Instagram post by Freak MMA: “Not true. It’s August.”
What the manager said and earlier rumors
Abdelaziz had told UFCcoverage that Makhachev was willing to fight in July and even suggested he would take a tough fight if needed. Abdelaziz said Islam “has some [injury] stuff going on” and that Dana White could speak about it. He also claimed that Islam was offered a match and that “in a way, Islam already have a fight in the summer” at welterweight. The manager mentioned a rumored bout against Ilia Topuria at a June event promoted as the UFC: White House card.
Possible opponents still unclear
As of now, the exact opponent for Makhachev’s first defense has not been announced. Names linked to the fight include No. 2 ranked Ian Garry, undefeated No. 3 Michael Morales, and former champion Kamaru Usman. The UFC has not confirmed any of these options.
Whoever is chosen, an August date would open the door for other big names to appear on the July cards. Reports earlier this week also suggested Conor McGregor could return to the Octagon in July, and postponing Makhachev to August would leave room for that return to be scheduled.
Context and next steps
Makhachev won the belt and is preparing for his first defense. The UFC will likely announce the opponent and exact date soon. For now, the clearest point is Dana White’s message: expect Makhachev back in August, not July.
| Fighter | Recent Result / Status |
|---|---|
| Islam Makhachev | UFC champion; first title defense expected in August (per Dana White) |
| Ian Garry | No. 2 ranked contender (linked as a possible opponent) |
| Michael Morales | No. 3 ranked; described as undefeated (linked as a possible opponent) |
| Kamaru Usman | Former UFC champion (linked as a possible opponent) |
More details should come from the UFC soon. Until then, fans can expect an August title defense for Islam Makhachev and continued speculation about his challenger.
