Islam Makhachev has already conquered one division. Now, the UFC welterweight champion is preparing for the next chapter of his reign — and he does not intend to stay away for long.
“"After the fight, I had three MRIs and had my entire spine checked. There are a few small issues, so I'm working on them. It's nothing serious. I'm just strengthening my spine."”
Speaking to Match TV, Makhachev revealed that he has undergone three MRIs and is targeting a return before Ramadan begins in February 2027, provided his recovery and the UFC's schedule allow it.
"After the fight, I had three MRIs and had my entire spine checked," Makhachev said. "There are a few small issues, so I'm working on them. It's nothing serious. I'm just strengthening my spine."
The champion made the comments after medical examinations following his title defense against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 on August 15 in Philadelphia.
That is an important distinction. Makhachev has not announced a serious injury or a prolonged absence. He also received a mandatory 30-day medical suspension after the fight stemming from a rib contusion — Garry landed 16 body shots — but the suspension expired in mid-September.
THE CHAMPION'S EXTRAORDINARY RUN CONTINUES
Makhachev's victory over Garry extended his UFC winning streak to 17 consecutive fights, breaking Anderson Silva's previous record of 16.
After dominating the lightweight division — where he set the record for most title defenses — Makhachev moved up to welterweight and defeated Jack Della Maddalena to capture the title. He then turned back Garry in his first welterweight defense, further establishing himself as one of the most accomplished active fighters in the sport.
The move to 170 pounds was supposed to create a new challenge.
So far, Makhachev has handled it.
WHO SHOULD BE NEXT?
The most obvious name is Carlos Prates.
The Brazilian contender has built serious momentum and has repeatedly stated that the UFC promised him the next welterweight title shot after consecutive stoppages of Geoff Neal, Leon Edwards, and former champion Jack Della Maddalena.
But the division is not short on alternatives.
Michael Morales remains undefeated and has established himself as one of the most dangerous young contenders at 170 pounds. Meanwhile, Garry has already made it clear that he believes he can defeat Makhachev in a rematch — and wants a second shot at the champion.
Makhachev previously suggested Prates should face Morales first. Prates has insisted he has already earned his opportunity.
That creates an interesting situation for the UFC: does Makhachev defend against the most established contender, or does the promotion first book a high-stakes eliminator to determine who has earned it?
THE BIGGER QUESTION
Makhachev's lightweight reign was defined by control, consistency, and an ability to neutralize elite opponents. His welterweight campaign is now becoming a test of whether those same qualities can make him dominant against larger, stronger challengers.
So far, the answer has been yes.
But the division is getting more dangerous, and the champion knows that every defense at 170 pounds will bring a different kind of challenge.
Islam Makhachev is not simply defending a title anymore. He is building a legacy across weight classes — and if he returns before Ramadan, the UFC could be looking at another major welterweight championship fight early in 2027.
