Dice City Sports · Dec 28, 2025
Islam Makhachev Pumps The Breaks On Early 2026 Return
© Ed Mulholland-Imagn ImagesThe UFC’s plans to usher in the Paramount+ era with a star-powered headliner featuring Islam Makhachev ultimately ran into a familiar obstacle: timing. Fresh off his unanimous-decision win over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 on Nov. 15, Makhachev was approached about making a rapid turnaround to headline UFC 324 on Jan. 24 at T-Mobile Arena. The proposed nine-week window, however, never gained traction with the reigning welterweight champion.
\ud83d\udea8 Islam Makhachev is eyeing a return after Ramadan, targeting a fight in April/May/June