Islam Makhachev has confirmed that he has started training camp for his next fight. According to the post, an opponent has been verbally confirmed, though the name is not officially disclosed. The post questions whether it will be Ian Garry or another alternative. Details remain limited beyond confirmation that Makhachev is actively preparing for his return.
Islam Makhachev has confirmed he is already deep into a training camp for his next outing, with the reigning welterweight champion revealing that an opponent has been verbally agreed upon, though no name has been made public.
Makhachev, 34, holds a 28-1 record and carries the welterweight title into this camp representing Russia and training out of Eagles MMA. The southpaw stands five-foot-ten with a 70-inch reach and has established himself as one of the most complete fighters in the sport. He lands 2.63 significant strikes per minute at a striking accuracy of 58 percent, while also averaging 3.2 takedowns and 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes — a combination that makes him dangerous across every phase of a fight. He also holds the number-one pound-for-pound ranking in the division.
The post that prompted the confirmation raised the possibility of undefeated welterweight contender Ian Garry as the unnamed opponent, though that name remains unverified and no official announcement has been made.
Why it matters
- Makhachev returning to defend the welterweight title is a marquee event regardless of opponent
- A verbal agreement being in place suggests an announcement could come in the near term
- Ian Garry's name being floated would pit the champion against one of the division's most high-profile rising contenders
- The identity of the opponent will have significant implications for the welterweight rankings picture
