Islam Makhachev Eyes August Comeback Amid Welterweight Title Buzz

Islam Makhachev, the reigning champion, has hinted at an anticipated return to the octagon this August. Following his attendance at PSG’s recent Champions League win over Arsenal in Budapest, Makhachev (28-1) announced his intention to enter fight camp immediately. This announcement has sparked excitement among fans and analysts alike, as the champion prepares for his next bout.

In a recent interview with UFC on TNT Sports, Makhachev acknowledged Ian Garry (17-1) as the leading contender for a welterweight title shot. Despite recognizing a number of challengers, the Dagestani fighter is determined to retain his championship. “Right after here I’m going to camp,” he stated. “[Return likely in] August. I will be ready. Lot of contenders but No. 1 is Ian Garry. We still have couple of more [contenders] who want to take the belt but I don’t give no one.”

Garry faces competition from fighters such as Carlos Prates and Michael Morales, both of whom are also vying for a shot at the title. Recently, Prates claimed that Garry is set to face Makhachev in August, a statement that aligns with Makhachev’s latest remarks, though the UFC has yet to confirm any official details regarding the matchup.

Makhachev, who has achieved a record four defenses of his lightweight title, made headlines by moving up to welterweight and decisively defeating Jack Della Maddalena to claim the title at UFC 322 last November. Garry, known as “The Future,” boasts ten victories in the UFC, with his only loss coming against fellow contender Shavkat Rakhmonov, who is currently recovering from an injury. Since that setback, Garry has rebounded impressively, securing wins over Prates and Belal Muhammad.