Overview
- UFC approached Makhachev to defend his welterweight title at UFC 324 on Jan. 24 in Las Vegas, the promotion’s Paramount+ kickoff, but he declined due to the short turnaround.
- Makhachev says no opponent was named for January; he suspects Michael Morales, while his co-manager cited Kamaru Usman or Ian Machado Garry as names he heard.
- The champion plans to return after Ramadan, targeting April to June 2026, and says he is open to waiting for the UFC’s planned White House event.
- Makhachev continues to frame Kamaru Usman as his toughest and most promotable welterweight test, drawing pushback from contenders such as Ian Machado Garry.
- With Makhachev passing on January, UFC 324 is set to feature Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title, with Kayla Harrison vs. Amanda Nunes also booked.