Full Breakdown
Islam Makhachev Faces Growing List of Title Contenders in Welterweight Division
11/25/2025, 1:05:10 AM
Overview of the Title Landscape
Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC welterweight champion, is navigating a competitive landscape of potential challengers following his recent victory over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322. With the welterweight division becoming increasingly active, Makhachev's next title defense is anticipated to be against one of several emerging contenders.
Ian Machado Garry's Title Challenge
After defeating former champion Belal Muhammad at UFC Qatar, Ian Machado Garry publicly called for a title shot against Makhachev. Garry, who is currently on a two-fight win streak, argued that his victories over top contenders warrant his claim to challenge for the title. Makhachev acknowledged Garry's performance, stating, “He’s also a good fighter. He’s on a good winning streak and he’s young. I think it’ll be interesting.” However, Makhachev emphasized that Garry must "surprise the UFC" with his performance to secure the title shot.
Other Contenders in the Mix
Makhachev's title defense options extend beyond Garry. He mentioned that the welterweight division now features three to four legitimate contenders. Notably, Shavkat Rakhmonov, who was previously positioned for a title shot before suffering an injury, remains a potential opponent. Makhachev remarked, “[Shavkat] hasn’t fought for over a year. A contender can’t sit out for a year with injuries and then come fight for the belt.” Additionally, Michael Morales, who recently achieved a first-round knockout against Sean Brady, has also entered the conversation as a possible challenger.
Makhachev's Preferences and Future Plans
While Makhachev is open to facing Garry, he has expressed a preference for Kamaru Usman as his first title defense. He noted that cutting weight to return to lightweight would require a compelling offer, stating, “It’s not as easy as before to cut weight.” Makhachev expects to receive clarity on his next opponent within the next two weeks, as the UFC finalizes its decision regarding the title challenger.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite Garry's strong case for a title shot, some critics argue that his previous loss to Rakhmonov should disqualify him from immediate contention. Garry has countered this by highlighting his extensive resume, which includes victories over notable fighters such as Daniel Rodriguez and Geoff Neal. He questioned the rationale behind his exclusion from the title conversation, asserting, “There’s nobody that’s fought a deeper division, that’s fought guys from top to bottom.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “He has to fight me next,” — Ian Machado Garry, UFC Fighter
- “He didn’t surprise me yesterday. If he surprised the UFC, then he will probably be next.” — Islam Makhachev, UFC Champion
- “A contender can’t sit out for a year with injuries and then come fight for the belt.” — Islam Makhachev, UFC Champion
- “It would have to be a very good offer for me to start cutting back to 155,” — Islam Makhachev, UFC Champion
As the welterweight division continues to evolve, Makhachev's next steps will significantly impact the trajectory of several fighters vying for championship glory.
