Islam Makhachev has started his training camp for an upcoming fight tentatively scheduled for July or August, according to Shamil Zavurov in an interview with Ushatayka. Zavurov stated that the opponent has not yet been determined but believes negotiations are ongoing internally. The lightweight champion is preparing for a summer bout despite the lack of an official announcement. No specific opponent or event has been confirmed at this time. Zavurov expressed confidence that the fight will take place soon.
Reports out of Russia suggest Islam Makhachev has already begun preparations for a summer return to competition, with associate Shamil Zavurov telling Ushatayka that the lightweight champion is deep into a training camp targeting a fight in July or August. No opponent has been confirmed, and Zavurov acknowledged that negotiations are still ongoing, though he expressed confidence the bout will materialize in the near term. No official announcement from the UFC has been made.
Makhachev, 34, carries a 28-1-0 record and holds the lightweight championship, currently sitting atop the pound-for-pound rankings. The Dagestan native trains out of Eagles MMA alongside a roster of elite combat sports talent. Standing five-foot-ten with a 70-inch reach, the southpaw champion is one of the most well-rounded fighters in the sport, averaging 3.2 takedowns per 15 minutes and landing strikes at a 58 percent accuracy rate. He also generates consistent submission threats, averaging 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Makhachev returning in the summer would be one of the biggest events on the UFC calendar regardless of opponent
- The lightweight division has several contenders jockeying for position, making opponent selection a significant storyline
- His combination of elite grappling and precise striking presents a uniquely difficult puzzle for any challenger
- Because no opponent or event has been officially confirmed, this report should be treated as unverified until the UFC makes a formal announcement
