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Islam Makhachev’s Next Welterweight Title Defense Remains Unset as Manager Teases ‘Much Bigger’ Fight and Ian Garry Presses Case

No opponent has been announced, with a post‑Ramadan return targeted in the May to July window.

Overview

  • Ian Machado Garry said on Instagram that he is ready to fight and claimed Islam Makhachev “needs more time,” highlighting recent wrestling work in Gori, Georgia.
  • Manager Ali Abdelaziz posted that the UFC is working on a “much bigger” fight that does not involve Garry, then later said Garry remains “in the conversation.”
  • Undefeated contender Michael Morales made an on‑camera callout during the UFC Mexico broadcast, and media coverage now frames him as a leading alternative to Garry.
  • Colby Covington publicly backed former champion Kamaru Usman as a marketable choice for the next title shot, even as Usman has indicated uncertainty about his standing with the UFC.
  • A new report from a UFC Español contributor claims Makhachev vs. Morales is being targeted for July 11 in Las Vegas, though the UFC has not confirmed that matchup or date.