Islam Makhachev said he must have one more fight before Ramadan in February 2027. The plan was revealed by Makhachev after he defended his UFC welterweight title by defeating Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330.
"Bro, we have to fight before Ramadan, 100%. January, end of 2026 we have to fight. I'm 34 years old, I have to fight as soon as possible. I didn't cut much weight, I didn't suffer a serious injury. That's it," Makhachev said. The statement also dismissed rumours that the Dagestan fighter would retire after his latest victory.
Makhachev defended his title through split decision with scores of 49-46, 49-46 and 48-47 over Garry at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia. The victory improved Makhachev's record to 29 wins and one loss in MMA, including 18 wins and one loss in the UFC. Garry holds a record of 17-2 in MMA and 10-2 in the UFC following the loss.
Makhachev dominated the fight with his grappling prowess. From the first round, the fighter displayed superiority with several takedowns and control near the octagon fence. In the second round, Makhachev landed a head kick that dropped Garry before continuing with ground-and-pound strikes.
Garry showed stronger resistance in the third and fourth rounds, thwarting several of Makhachev's takedown attempts. In the final round, Makhachev again utilised grappling by successfully executing a takedown and controlling Garry's back. The UFC has not yet announced Makhachev's next official opponent, although names such as Michael Morales and Carlos Prates have been mentioned as potential candidates.