Khabib Nurmagomedov Shut Down Islam Makhachev Quick Turn Around Fight in January 

Ali Abdelaziz talks about UFC veteran Khabib Nurmagomedov's objection on Islam Makhachev's quick return to the Octagon.

Khabib Nurmagomedov Shut Down Islam Makhachev Quick Turn Around Fight in January 

Khabib Nurmagomedov doesn't want Islam Makhachev to fight in January (via X)

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A few weeks ago, Islam Makhachev made history by becoming the UFC welterweight champion after defeating Jack Della Maddalena. He became the eleventh fighter ever to hold belts in two different UFC weight classes, further strengthening his growing legendary reputation. Despite massive fan excitement surrounding his return, reports suggest the new champion will not compete again anytime soon.

After years of collaboration and several pay-per-view events, UFC has finally parted ways with ESPN as its broadcasting partner. In January 2026, UFC will feature its first Paramount card, and according to Ali Abdelaziz, Makhachev was offered a fight. However, the manager mentioned that Makhachev’s mentor and the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov didn’t entertain the idea at all.

Even the UFC reached out to me, they were asking [Islam] to fight a main event in January. He thought about it, and Khabib said, ‘Hey, shut up’. Honestly, Kamaru’s name was in the mix for January. Ian Garry’s name was in the mix too.

Ali Abdelaziz via MMA Junkie 

Team Khabib and Islam Makhachev are traditionally known for avoiding short-notice matchups and consistently maintaining significant gaps between their fights. As a coach, the ‘Eagle’ emphasizes long, structured training camps as fundamentally important for fighters seeking optimal performance.

This may have come as a setback for the fans wanting to see the welterweight champ return soon. Nevertheless, Paddy Pimblett is currently scheduled to face Justin Gaethje in the main event for the Interim lightweight championship. Following his welterweight title win, Makhachev talked about breaking the record of most title defenses in the division.

For that, the Dagestani talked about starting his title journey by potentially fighting former dominant champion Kamaru Usman next. However, it seems like fans will most probably have to wait for Makhachev to come after Ramadan is over. 

Kamaru Usman believes him vs. Islam Makhachev is the perfect title matchup

The UFC welterweight division currently features numerous elite fighters capable of delivering explosive performances and consistently redefining competitive expectations. Islam Makhachev’s arrival has already disrupted the rankings and forced contenders to re-evaluate strategies against his dominant wrestling style.

Islam Makhachev vs. Kamaru Usman next
Islam Makhachev vs. Kamaru Usman next (via)

Top contenders feel heightened urgency because earning any championship opportunity now demands confronting an evolved champion possessing unmatched composure consistently. Carlos Prates recently strengthened his contention status by showcasing exceptional precision and power during a pivotal victory over Leon Edwards.

Ian Garry likewise reinforced his standing after demonstrating technical improvements and defeating former champion Belal Muhammad. Rising star Michael Morales also delivered a major statement by securing a convincing win against Sean Brady at UFC 322. However, according to Kamaru Usman, his resume uniquely positions him as the ideal challenger capable of overcoming Makhachev.

listen, it is what it is. If the company says, ‘We want to book the biggest fight right now in that division,’ it’s hands down, I think we know what the answer is. Former pound-for-pound vs. pound-for-pound….Ian’s doing work, too, but you can’t literally sit here and say he’s done more work than what Prates has done. You can’t sit here and say he’s done more work than what Morales has done

Kamaru Usman via Pound 4 Pound Podcast 

Kamaru Usman once dominated the competitive UFC welterweight division and secured the most title defenses through relentless pressure. After experiencing a difficult patch, his recent victory against Joaquin Buckley successfully revitalized his position in the division. Many fans complained about his lingering knee issues and insisted he would not present a dangerous challenge for Islam Makhachev. 

Others argued that younger rising fighters deserved championship opportunities before an aging former champion reclaimed another high-stakes main event. Nevertheless, it will be interesting to observe how the UFC manages this chaotic landscape filled with contenders demanding immediate clarity.

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