The UFC welterweight division is buzzing with anticipation, but the man at the center of it all—Islam Makhachev—won’t be stepping into the Octagon as soon as some fans had hoped. After his impressive victory over Jack Della Maddalena in November 2025, which saw him capture the welterweight crown at UFC 322, Makhachev was quickly approached for a title defense at UFC 324. Yet, as the dust settles, it’s clear that the Russian champion is choosing patience and preparation over a hasty return, leaving the division and its contenders in a state of suspense.
Makhachev’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular. Already a dominant force at lightweight with a record four consecutive title defenses, he made the leap to welterweight and cemented his legacy by defeating Della Maddalena by unanimous decision on November 15, 2025, at Madison Square Garden. That win not only made him a two-division champion but also marked a changing of the guard in a division that many now consider the most exciting in the sport.
But just as the UFC was gearing up to launch its new Paramount+ era with a blockbuster headliner, Makhachev pumped the brakes. The promotion wanted him to defend his newly won title at UFC 324 on January 24, 2026, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas—a mere nine weeks after his grueling three-month training camp and title bout. For Makhachev, the turnaround was simply too quick. "I was offered a fight in January," he revealed in an interview with Ushatayka. "January, I think, is an impossible date because I had already been in camp for three months, and they called me in December. They were like, 'You'll be fighting in January.' I said it was already too late. I needed to leave for camp and be ready for January. I told them I definitely won't fight in January."
The UFC, ever hungry for marquee matchups, had hoped to capitalize on Makhachev’s momentum. The identity of his would-be opponent was never officially disclosed, but speculation swirled. Makhachev himself suspects it was Michael Morales, the undefeated Ecuadorian phenom who improved to 19-0 with a knockout of Sean Brady on the undercard of UFC 322. "They didn't tell me the name, but honestly, I think it was Morales," Makhachev said. "That's my opinion. They didn't say the name, they just asked whether I would fight in January or not."
Morales’s rise has been meteoric—his record speaks for itself, and his recent performance has many fans clamoring for a title shot. Yet, Makhachev’s decision to wait has delayed that potential clash, at least for now. Interestingly, Makhachev’s co-manager, Ali Abdelaziz, floated other names as possible opponents, including former champion Kamaru Usman and the surging Ian Machado Garry. Usman, once considered nearly unbeatable at 170 pounds, has hit a rough patch, going 1-3 in his last four outings, with his sole win coming against Joaquin Buckley, currently ranked tenth in the division. Despite this, Makhachev has expressed interest in facing Usman down the line, but he remains uncertain if Usman was among the options presented by the UFC for January.
With Makhachev declining the January defense, the UFC quickly pivoted. The main event for UFC 324 will now feature an interim lightweight title bout between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, a matchup that promises fireworks of its own. In the co-main event, bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison will defend her belt against returning legend Amanda Nunes, adding even more star power to the card. Still, the absence of Makhachev leaves a noticeable gap, especially as fans had hoped to see the welterweight king usher in the new broadcast era.
So, when will Makhachev return? The champion has made it clear that his next fight won’t happen until after Ramadan, which concludes in early April 2026. "I think it will be after Ramadan for sure—April, May, June," he said. "If they want to wait and put it at the White House, then I'll wait. If not, then I can fight earlier." The mention of a potential UFC White House event has only fueled speculation, as the promotion explores new and unprecedented venues for its biggest stars. With other potential headliners like Ilia Topuria and Alex Pereira unavailable, Makhachev could very well be the centerpiece of this historic card.
For now, though, the welterweight division remains in a holding pattern. The contenders are circling, fans are debating, and the UFC is strategizing its next move. Makhachev’s decision, while disappointing for those eager to see him back in action, underscores the importance of fighter readiness and health—especially after a grueling year that saw him fight three times since late 2023 and train relentlessly for his shot at two-division glory.
There’s also a broader context to consider. Makhachev’s ascent has coincided with a revitalization of the welterweight division. Once criticized as stagnant, it’s now brimming with fresh talent and compelling storylines. Michael Morales is just one of several hungry contenders, and with Jack Della Maddalena looking to rebound, Kamaru Usman seeking redemption, and Ian Machado Garry making waves, the division’s future looks bright.
Meanwhile, Makhachev’s legacy continues to grow. Having vacated the lightweight title after four dominant defenses, his sights are now firmly set on building a similar reign at 170 pounds. His methodical approach—prioritizing adequate preparation over quick turnarounds—may frustrate some, but it’s a testament to his professionalism and desire to compete at his best.
As the UFC’s 2026 campaign kicks off without its welterweight champion, the anticipation only builds. Will Makhachev defend against Morales, Usman, or another top contender? Could the White House event become the most unique stage in MMA history? The answers remain just out of reach, but one thing is certain: when Islam Makhachev does return, the eyes of the fight world will be watching.
For now, the spotlight shifts to UFC 324’s new headliners, while Makhachev and the welterweight division await their next chapter. The king has chosen to wait, and the throne remains his—at least until the spring.
