Makhachev avoids talking about a possible UFC fight against Chimaev: 'Now is not the time'

Islam makhachev derrotou Renato Moicano No. UFC 311. Photo: Instagram/UFC Espanol

Islam makhachev avoided delving into the possibility of facing Khamzat Shimaev in the future. At a press conference held in Dagestan, recorded by the 'Ushatayka' channel, the Russian preferred not to fuel speculation about a possible confrontation with his fellow religious compatriot and emphasized that his focus is on more immediate challenges within the UFC.

"Now, answering that question, I don't want to open the door to any conflict between our people. We'll see. I have a difficult fight ahead of me. After that, we'll see," Makhachev declared.

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Makhachev's statement comes after a tense past involving his cousin, Abubakar Nurmagomedov, and Chimaev himself. The episode took place shortly after the UFC 280, in 2022, behind the scenes of the event. After a confusion at the edge of the octagon, it was Khabib Nurmagomedov who intervened to calm the situation, acting as a mediator between the parties.

Since then, interactions between Makhachev and Chimaev have been marked by mutual respect, although there is no close relationship in sporting terms.

New champion Khamzat awaits a challenger to defend his title for the first time. Islam, meanwhile, is negotiating his debut at welterweight (up to 77kg) and is expected to face Jack Della Maddalena.