TLDR
- Manager Ali Abdelaziz told TMZ that Islam Makhachev agreed to fight in July
- Dana White publicly dismissed the July timeline and confirmed an August return instead
- Makhachev will defend his welterweight title for the first time after moving up from lightweight
- Potential opponents include Ian Machado Garry and Michael Morales, but nothing is confirmed
- The conflicting statements highlight tension between fighter camps and UFC’s official promotion strategy
Sources: HITC | Times of India | ESPN MMA
UFC President Dana White has publicly contradicted claims from Islam Makhachev’s manager about the champion’s return date. White confirmed that Makhachev will fight in August, not July as his manager had stated.
The conflicting timeline emerged after manager Ali Abdelaziz spoke to TMZ about Makhachev’s upcoming fight. Abdelaziz said the UFC had offered Makhachev a welterweight bout against a top-ranked contender for a July card, and the champion had accepted without hesitation.
Abdelaziz indicated the fight was close to being finalized, with an official announcement expected soon. He also mentioned that Makhachev was willing to compete despite dealing with a minor hand issue.
White Rejects July Plans
Dana White quickly responded to the manager’s comments by shutting down the July timeline completely. The UFC president made it clear that the organization is targeting August for Makhachev’s comeback.
White did not mention a specific event for the August fight. His statement effectively rules out International Fight Week as the venue for the champion’s return.
The manager also addressed speculation about a potential super fight between Makhachev and featherweight champion Ilia Topuria. Abdelaziz clarified that while such a matchup was discussed, it never reached an advanced stage.
🤕Dana White says he has no plans for Islam Makhachev right now due to his hand injury:
"Islam's coming back from a hand injury. As soon as he's ready, we'll figure out what's next for him."
(via @ufc)
pic.twitter.com/d6a9EyjtKz— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) March 22, 2026
According to Abdelaziz, Makhachev would have taken the Topuria fight as well, even under less than perfect conditions. However, that bout does not appear to be the current plan.
Welterweight Title Defense Ahead
Makhachev is preparing for his first title defense at welterweight after moving up from lightweight and winning the belt. The Dagestani fighter has dominated at lightweight and is now looking to prove himself in the higher weight class.
Several rising contenders have been linked to the potential matchup. Ian Machado Garry and Michael Morales are among the names mentioned as possible opponents, but the UFC has not confirmed any specific fighter.
Some fans have speculated about a possible fight with Conor McGregor. However, no credible reports have suggested that matchup is being seriously considered by the UFC.
The situation highlights the usual tension between early information from fighter camps and the UFC’s controlled promotion strategy. Managers and fighters often speak about potential fights before the organization makes official announcements.
Abdelaziz’s optimism suggests a deal may be close to completion. However, Dana White’s words carry final authority when it comes to UFC fight scheduling.
The champion remains eager to stay active despite his hand issue. Makhachev has built a reputation as one of the most active champions in recent UFC history.
Fans are now waiting for the UFC to make an official announcement about the August fight. The organization typically reveals main event details several weeks before the scheduled date.
White’s confirmation of an August timeline gives fans a clearer picture of when to expect Makhachev’s return. The welterweight division remains in limbo until the UFC announces the champion’s opponent and the specific event date.
