Islam Makhachev captured the UFC welterweight crown by defeating Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322. Since moving up to the 170-pound limit and securing another belt, the champion is actively looking for his first title defense. The division is packed with contenders trying to earn their shot. However, Makhachev seems intent on looking completely past Ian Machado Garry.
During a recent live stream with Adin Ross, Makhachev’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz confirmed the exact timeline for the next championship bout. He stated Makhachev will fight on August 15 in Philadelphia and made it clear they are not turning down any challengers offered by the promotion. “It can be anybody, anytime, anywhere, doesn’t matter. If they can bring King Kong and make welterweight, we can fight him“
Despite Abdelaziz claiming an open-door policy, the champion holds entirely different plans. Islam Makhachev has made his stance clear during a recent interview with Red Corner MMA. He made it clear that he is looking for legacy fights, and Michael Morales fits better as he is undefeated.
If we pick between Morales and Ian, to be honest with you, in terms of my legacy I would go with Morales because he is still undefeated,” Makhachev said.
Ian Garry heard the comments, and in a newly posted training video, a teammate brought up the situation. He asked Garry about Makhachev preferring Morales based on an undefeated record.
Garry immediately dismissed the reasoning and ripped into the welterweight champion. The Irish star also pointed out the flaws in the other names Makhachev mentioned.
Of course he would,” Garry replied. “Of course, he would rather fight Morales, because Morales hasn’t beat anyone in the sport. He said he rather fight Kamaru Usman. Kamaru Usman has won two fights in the last ten. He said he would rather fight Prates. The man who I beat. He’d rather fight anybody except me.”
The UFC brass now has a tight window to finalize the main event for the August 15 card in Philadelphia. Makhachev clearly prefers an opponent who aligns with his specific legacy goals, leaning toward undefeated prospects or veteran names.
Ian Garry refused to step aside quietly. The promotion must secure a contract soon to officially lock in the Welterweight Champion’s next challenger.
Islam Makhachev’s Next Opponent Remains Unclear Ahead of Planned August Return
Islam Makhachev holds the UFC Welterweight Title and wants to fight this August, but the champion lacks a signed contract or a confirmed opponent. Rumors originally pointed to a summer showdown against Ian Machado Garry. However, recent results in the 170-pound weight class opened the door for several other challengers. Carlos Prates scored a massive knockout victory in early May, completely shaking up the divisional picture.
The Welterweight Champion himself has confirmed that there are no official talks with the UFC regarding his next opponent yet.
There’s been a lot of rumors about me fighting Ian Garry next, but I haven’t talked with any UFC officials about this fight, I can’t tell for sure who is the next contender..Kamaru Usman is also up there, Ian Garry, Morales, Prates,” Makhachev said.
With the summer date closing in rapidly, the promotion needs to issue official contracts soon to ensure a full training camp for the champion.
