Overview
- Makhachev confirmed the UFC approached him in December to defend his new welterweight title on Jan. 24 at UFC 324, but he ruled the turnaround too short for a proper camp.
- He said no opponent was named, though he believes the proposed challenger was unbeaten Michael Morales; his manager previously heard Kamaru Usman and Ian Machado Garry mentioned.
- The champion plans to fight after Ramadan and is open to appearing on the planned White House card if the UFC waits for that date.
- With Makhachev passing on January, UFC 324 will be headlined by Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title.
- Makhachev has voiced that former champion Kamaru Usman would be his toughest welterweight test, as debate continues over next-in-line options including Morales, Garry and Shavkat Rakhmonov.