Overview
- Makhachev said he underwent three MRIs and a full spine check after UFC 330 and is treating a few small, non‑surgical issues while strengthening his back.
- The champion, who defeated Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 on August 15, 2026, said medical teams will clear his next camp and he expects to be “good to go in a few months.”
- He told Match TV he prefers a return before Ramadan, which begins in February 2027, but left open the possibility of one more fight before the end of 2026 if health permits.
- Makhachev named Carlos Prates and Michael Morales as the top potential next opponents and noted Shavkat Rakhmonov has expressed interest in a title shot.
- Prates is currently the leading contender on a multi‑fight knockout run that includes recent wins over Jack Della Maddalena and Leon Edwards, a record that shapes UFC matchmaking and the division’s short‑term order.