The reigning UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, is unsure about his ability to get into the Octagon for a title defense this year. Makhachev, who is 32, was last in action in June when he secured a submission victory over Dustin Poirier in the ultimate round of their headliner at UFC 302. This triumphant run marked the third successful title defense for Makhachev following back-to-back wins against former Featherweight Champion Alexander Volkanovski.
As it stands, talks hint at a possible rematch between Makhachev and the top-ranked lightweight contender, Arman Tsarukyan. However, Makhachev recently hinted at dealing with post-fight healing from the Poirier match, citing various pains including discomfort in his hand. He expressed this in an interview with Ushatayka, ‘Post-Poirier, I felt the punches in my fists and many other places. It’s a process, healing gradually.’
The champion went on to share his concerns about his hand, which appeared to suffer the most. A recent MRI scan revealed that Makhachev is suffering from a partial ligament tear. The champion admitted uncertainty about his timeline for recovery, and surgery could be on the cards if the healing doesn’t progress as expected.
UFC fans have grown used to seeing Makhachev headline the pay-per-view events in Abu Dhabi. Despite the organization seemingly keen on having the 31-year-old fighter top the UFC 308 bill scheduled for October 28, Makhachev couldn’t pledge his readiness to return to the Octagon before year-end.
Makhachev expressed his uncertainty by stating, ‘It’s still up in the air. We haven’t had any concrete discussions about the fight. I am undergoing rehabilitation every single day, closely monitoring my hand’s condition. It would be brilliant if I could make my comeback before this year wraps up, which is my plan.’
He further added, ‘So far, I haven’t even begun to consider the possibility of not competing. My target is to return in peak physical condition, utterly prepared, devoid of any inhibitions. Minor injuries bothered me before my last fight, and they seem to have piled up subsequently. I need to give my body the time it requires to bounce back.’
Before Makhachev’s recent title defense against Poirier, there was widespread chatter about a potential bid for a double-championship against Leon Edwards. However, the conversation was shelved after Belal Muhammad’s surprising victory over Edwards to claim the welterweight title at UFC 304.
Muhammad’s victory placed a temporary halt on Makhachev’s potential double-champ aspirations due to the history between Muhammad and Makhachev. They shared the training ground along with MMA star Khabib Nurmagomedov, making it unlikely for Makhachev to contend against his training partner.
UFC heads to Abu Dhabi for a Fight Night event this Saturday. The headline of this event will be the face-off between Cory Sandhagen and Umar Nurmagomedov. But, there’s considerable interest around Makhachev’s health.
If Makhachev’s hand concern proves non-requirement of surgery, then there’s no doubt that the UFC would want him to be the premier attraction of their return to Abu Dhabi for UFC 308 in October. His preparation and ultimate participation, however, depend on his recovery from the injuries that seem to have accumulated over time.
This recovery and Makhachev’s readiness to compete will dictate the course of future UFC lightweight events. Fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on his rehabilitation and whether the UFC will be able to execute its plan of featuring his desired rematch with Tsarukyan.
For now, the uncertainty surrounding his return keeps his opponents, stakeholders, and audience on their toes, awaiting updates and potential shifts in match lineup. It’s safe to say that the next few months will be pivotal for MMA’s lightweight division and for Makhachev’s career trajectory.
Whatever the case may be in the coming months, the UFC lightweight championship scene remains unpredictable and exciting. The health and readiness of fighters like Makhachev are key determinants in shaping the future of the division.
As audiences look forward to more thrilling encounters inside the Octagon, Makhachev’s situation only adds a suspenseful element to the mix. His progress and eventual return, poised to be a significant comeback, stand to further escalate the anticipation in the UFC world.