Could it be? Champion Islam Makhachev reveals the ideal date for his first UFC title defense.

Makhachev focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

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MMA star, Islam makhachev He hasn't fought since November, when he became welterweight champion (up to 77,1 kg) in New York (USA), but it seems there are plans for his return to action. The Russian, former lightweight king (up to 70,3 kg), indicated that his first title defense in the current category could happen in July.

Makhachev made his interest in fighting on that date public last Wednesday (22), through his official account on 'X'. And the Russian's choice of July makes sense, given that UFC 329 will be held on the 11th and is the main attraction of 'International Fight Week'.

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It's quite true that, despite Makhachev's intentions, the UFC hasn't yet decided on his future. In any case, as his friend and training partner... Khabib Nurmagomedov He's also an MMA legend, so it would make perfect sense for the company to choose him to headline this grand event.

Makhachev's fighters in MMA

Islam makhachevThe 34-year-old is a UFC double champion and an MMA legend. With four successful title defenses, the Russian holds the record in the lightweight division. He began his career in the sport in 2010 and debuted in its biggest organization in 2015.

By the modality, the friend of Khabib Nurmagomedov He built a record consisting of 28 wins and one loss. His main triumphs were over Alexander Volkanovsky (twice), Arman Tsarukyan, Charles of the Bronx, Dustin poirier, Jack Della Maddalena e Renato Moicano.

📞 July ? pic.twitter.com/MoNlwwBzCZ

- Makhachev Islam (@MAKHACHEVMMA) April 22, 2026