Islam Makhachev's Upcoming Title Defense: What to Expect

Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC welterweight champion, is scheduled to defend his title in July during International Fight Week. His manager, Ali Abdelaziz, confirmed that Makhachev's return to the octagon is a "done deal," despite earlier concerns regarding his injury status. The specific opponent for this title defense has yet to be announced.

Islam Makhachev’s manager says next UFC title defense ‘done deal’ for the summer, Ilia Topuria fight never close to happening

A highly anticipated superfight between Makhachev and lightweight champion Ilia Topuria was discussed but ultimately fell through. Abdelaziz revealed that the UFC initially reached out to propose the matchup, but the offer was rescinded before he could relay it to Makhachev. Topuria is now set to unify the lightweight belts against interim champion Justin Gaethje on June 14, 2026. Abdelaziz suggested that financial disagreements played a significant role in the cancellation of the Makhachev-Topuria fight, with Topuria's management reportedly dissatisfied with the offered purse.

Islam Makhachev’s manager says next UFC title defense ‘done deal’ for the summer, Ilia Topuria fight never close to happening

Abdelaziz stated, “I believe Ilia and Islam is the biggest fight the UFC can make... But does Ilia really want it? Because if he wanted, two things gonna happen. He has to vacate his lightweight title.” He emphasized that while Topuria's team is justified in seeking a lucrative deal, the UFC has the financial capacity to meet high demands if they prioritize the fight.

Islam Makhachev’s manager says next UFC title defense ‘done deal’ for the summer, Ilia Topuria fight never close to happeningIslam Makhachev set to defend welterweight title in July return: ‘It’s a done deal’

The failure to secure the Makhachev-Topuria bout has drawn criticism regarding the UFC's negotiation tactics. Abdelaziz hinted that Topuria's reluctance to vacate his lightweight title and the desire for a substantial payday may have contributed to the fight's collapse. He remarked, “I can say certain kind of numbers to turn the UFC off,” indicating that financial negotiations can often derail potential matchups.

Islam Makhachev’s manager says next UFC title defense ‘done deal’ for the summer, Ilia Topuria fight never close to happening

Makhachev's next fight is expected to be against a number one contender, with the announcement anticipated soon. Abdelaziz noted that Makhachev is eager to compete, stating, “If this fight was offered in June, and Islam even have on one leg, he would have [done] the fight.” This determination underscores Makhachev's commitment to defending his title and maintaining his status in the welterweight division.

Islam Makhachev’s manager says next UFC title defense ‘done deal’ for the summer, Ilia Topuria fight never close to happening

• “It was middle of the day, Islam was sleeping, and I was excited about it. And after that, I got called back and said, ‘Never mind, the fight is not gonna happen.’ Before even I talked with Islam.” — Ali Abdelaziz, Manager of Islam Makhachev

Islam Makhachev’s manager says next UFC title defense ‘done deal’ for the summer, Ilia Topuria fight never close to happening

• “I don’t blame anyone for trying to make the most money they can because I believe Ilia and Islam is the biggest fight the UFC can make.” — Ali Abdelaziz

Islam Makhachev’s manager says next UFC title defense ‘done deal’ for the summer, Ilia Topuria fight never close to happening

• “If this fight was offered in June, and Islam even have on one leg, he would have [done] the fight.” — Ali Abdelaziz

Islam Makhachev’s manager says next UFC title defense ‘done deal’ for the summer, Ilia Topuria fight never close to happening

As the UFC prepares for International Fight Week, the focus will be on Makhachev's title defense and the potential implications for the welterweight division.

Islam Makhachev set to defend welterweight title in July return: ‘It’s a done deal’