Overview
- Makhachev confirmed he turned down a UFC 324 offer for Jan. 24 in Las Vegas, calling a nine‑week turnaround from his Nov. 15 win unrealistic.
- He said no opponent was provided but he suspects the January plan involved unbeaten Michael Morales, while co‑manager Ali Abdelaziz cited Kamaru Usman and Ian Machado Garry as names he heard.
- The champion is eyeing April–June 2026 for his next bout and said he is willing to wait to compete on the planned UFC White House card if asked.
- Makhachev has publicly campaigned for former champion Kamaru Usman next, describing him as his toughest welterweight test, though no matchup is finalized.
- The idea of an Usman title shot has met resistance from active contenders, with critics pointing to his 1–3 record over his past four fights despite a June win over Joaquin Buckley.