UFC Veteran commentator Jon Anik Defends Islam Makhachev Amidst Fans Unrest Over ‘Inactive’ Champion

Longtime UFC commentator and announcer Jon Anik comes to Islam Makhachev's aid as the Dagestani champion faces scrutiny.

UFC Veteran commentator Jon Anik Defends Islam Makhachev Amidst Fans Unrest Over ‘Inactive’ Champion

Jon Anik comes to Islam Makhachev's support (via Bloody Elbow, X)

In Short
  • Islam Makhachev has faced criticism for inactivity since becoming a two-division champion at UFC 322.
  • Jon Anik defends Makhachev, citing injuries and Ramadan as factors affecting his fight schedule.
  • Islam Makhachev is expected to return in August, with Ian Garry being a potential opponent for his first title defense.

Islam Makhachev is widely regarded as the protégé of Khabib Nurmagomedov, following a similarly dominant path in the UFC. Many believe he surpassed the undefeated icon’s legacy at UFC 322 by becoming a two-division champion. However, no first title defense has been announced, leading to scrutiny of his inactivity and prompting UFC commentator Jon Anik to support the Dagestani champion.

At UFC 322, Makhachev delivered a dominant performance, defeating Jack Della Maddalena by unanimous decision with 50-45 scorecards across all three judges in a one-sided contest. The win made him the promotion’s 11th two-division champion and further solidified his standing among the elite fighters. He also tied Anderson Silva with 16 straight victories for the longest win streaks in UFC history.

However, UFC 322 also proved pivotal for the welterweight division, with contenders like Michael Morales and Carlos Prates strengthening their case for a title shot. Momentum continued as Ian Garry defeated Belal Muhammad at UFC Qatar. While Makhachev was expected to return soon, Anik believes that a hand injury and the end of Ramadan have also impacted his timeline and delayed his comeback.

I think it is too harsh, and when you look at all of the different rumours and rumblings and things that transpired when it came to June 14th, and then a hand injury into the conversation and Ramadan, all these different factors, I think we should be giving the P4P king the benefit of the doubt. Islam is a super thoughtful, sincere, and genuine guy. I’ve really enjoyed every single interaction with the guy, and he’s the No. 1 P4P fighter in the world, so I would like to see him get a little bit of grace.

Jon Anik via The Bohnfire

Anik has consistently remained supportive of Islam Makhachev, backing the Dagestani star amid questions surrounding his activity. He has also indicated that the reigning welterweight champion is on course to challenge Georges St-Pierre in all-time greatest discussions. Anik pointed to Makhachev’s dominance, consistency, and recent achievements as key factors strengthening his historical standing.

Anik also highlighted Ilia Topuria, who has been inactive since UFC 317 following personal matters, including his separation from Giorgina Uzcategui. The longtime UFC commentator further referenced the Khamzat Chimaev situation, noting that the reigning middleweight titleholder has been sidelined due to injury. Chimaev is now set to return at UFC 328, where he will face Sean Strickland in his first title defense.

Islam Makhachev has faced scrutiny after rumors that a superfight with Ilia Topuria was called off at the UFC White House just before the Freedom Fights 250 announcement during the UFC 326 broadcast. The cancellation was reportedly due to Makhachev’s hand injury, leaving fans awaiting a confirmed return. Jon Anik has continued to support the champion, noting his absence stems from legitimate circumstances.

UFC welterweight contender weighs in on Islam Makhachev’s potential first title defense

Sean Brady entered UFC 322 as the front-runner for a title shot, holding the #1 welterweight ranking. He came off a submission win over former champion Leon Edwards, which had positioned him for a potential championship opportunity. However, Brady suffered a brutal knockout loss to Michael Morales, casting doubt on his future. The defeat removed him from immediate title shot conversations.

Islam Makhachev's next fight
Islam Makhachev’s next fight (via X)

Before the Jack Della Maddalena fight, Sean Brady expressed doubts about Islam Makhachev as a welterweight champion. He believed the Dagestani star might move back down to face Ilia Topuria, leaving the 170-pound division stagnant. That perspective influenced opinions on the title landscape, but Brady’s stance now appears to have shifted in his analysis of a potential Makhachev-Ian Garry matchup.

I know people are going to say I’m a hater of Ian, but I think Islam will get him down, and I think Islam will probably submit him. Look where Shavkat had Ian, look where MVP had Ian in a weird grappling spot. People can get to him, and if someone like Islam does, which I think he would, it would be a long night for Ian.

Sean Brady via The Ariel Helwani Show

Ian ‘Machado’ Garry has been awaiting a title shot announcement ever since his victory over Belal Muhammad at UFC Qatar. UFC CEO Dana White recently revealed that Islam Makhachev is set to return in August, though an opponent has not yet been finalized. With the champion’s comeback on the horizon, Garry is widely considered the frontrunner to face the Dagestani phenom.

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