UFC Champion Makhachev Awaits Next Challenge

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev has dismissed speculation about his future, insisting that he is fully fit and ready to return to the Octagon as early as July.

The Russian star rejected claims that he is avoiding a fight, stressing that no official contract has yet been offered by the UFC. According to Makhachev, discussions about potential opponents are meaningless until a bout is formally presented.

“I’m healthy, I’m training, and I’m ready to fight,” Makhachev said. “I have an old hand injury, but it isn’t preventing me from competing. If the UFC sends me a contract, I’ll be prepared to accept it.”

Currently in training camp, the reigning champion expects to be fight-ready this summer. While he stopped short of naming a preferred opponent, Makhachev acknowledged that Ian Machado Garry and Michael Morales are among the names being discussed. Ultimately, however, he emphasized that the UFC will decide who stands across from him next.