Overview
- Islam Makhachev reiterated he will not cut back to 155 pounds and said Ilia Topuria must come to welterweight if they are to fight.
- Ilia Topuria remains the undisputed lightweight champion on hiatus for personal and legal matters and has yet to make his first defense.
- Reporters citing UFC sources say Topuria will not be stripped, and the promotion could permit interim-title defenses if his layoff continues.
- Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett is booked for the interim lightweight title on January 24 at T‑Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, with the winner expected to face Topuria upon his return.
- Dana White indicated a Makhachev–Kamaru Usman matchup is not set, saying future bouts depend on the timing of Topuria’s comeback.