Makhachev Set for July Welterweight Title Defense

Islam Makhachev, the UFC welterweight champion, is set to return to the octagon in July for his first title defense, according to his manager Ali Abdelaziz, despite earlier reports of a hand injury that sidelined the Russian fighter from a potential June bout. The announcement of his opponent, expected to be a top contender, is forthcoming from the promotion.

Abdelaziz provided the update in an interview with TMZ Sports, clarifying that Makhachev had been offered a welterweight main event but requested a delay due to the injury. "Islam got offered a different fight at welterweight to be the main event, and Islam said, 'Hey, let's do this in July' due to a hand injury," Abdelaziz said. He emphasized Makhachev's readiness, noting that the bout against the number one contender is already finalized. UFC CEO Dana White had previously confirmed the injury at a post-fight press conference following UFC London, stating it prevented Makhachev from competing on the promotion's White House card earlier this month and leaving his timeline uncertain.

Adding to the speculation, Makhachev posted a training video on Instagram this week showing him striking a heavy bag with both hands, appearing...