Makhachev Says No to Quick Turnaround as UFC Welterweight Picture Heats Up
So here’s what’s going on with Islam Makhachev right now, and it’s actually a pretty fascinating moment in his career. The UFC welterweight champion was recently offered a title defense at UFC 324 early next year, but that opportunity was ultimately turned down. And according to Makhachev himself, the decision wasn’t about fear, money, or opponents — it was simply about timing and preparation.
To rewind a bit, Makhachev made a major statement in November when he moved up from lightweight to welterweight at UFC 322. Jack Della Maddalena was beaten convincingly, and just like that, Makhachev became a two-division UFC champion. It followed a dominant run at lightweight, where four successful title defenses were put together before the belt was vacated earlier this year. His pound-for-pound reputation was carried right along with him to 170 pounds.
Earlier this month, UFC matchmakers reportedly approached Makhachev about headlining UFC 324 on January 24 in Las Vegas. That card is significant because it would mark the UFC’s first event under its new Paramount+ broadcast era. From a promotional standpoint, it made sense. A superstar champion debuting on a new platform is always appealing. But behind the scenes, the timeline just didn’t work.
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Makhachev explained that the offer came far too late. Training camps are carefully structured months in advance, and by the time the January fight was suggested, he had already completed an extended camp and was no longer in position to reset properly. From his perspective, stepping into his first welterweight title defense without a full and focused preparation would have been irresponsible. So the answer was a firm no.
Because of that decision, UFC 324 will now be headlined by an interim lightweight title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, while Makhachev waits for a more realistic return date.
Interestingly, Makhachev believes the opponent may have been undefeated contender Michael Morales, although no name was officially confirmed. Morales is coming off a huge knockout win and remains unbeaten, making him a dangerous and intriguing challenger.
Looking ahead, Makhachev has made it clear that a spring return is the goal, most likely after Ramadan. April, May, or June have all been mentioned as possibilities. And while rising contenders are circling, Makhachev has also openly said that former champion Kamaru Usman is the matchup he finds most dangerous and most compelling.
For now, the welterweight division waits. The champion isn’t rushing — and judging by his track record, patience has been working just fine.
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