Islam Makhachev confirms training camp underway, opponent verbally agreed

Islam Makhachev has confirmed that he has begun his training camp for his next fight. According to Makhachev, his opponent has already been verbally confirmed, though he did not explicitly name who it will be. The post speculates whether the opponent might be Ian Garry or suggests there could be other options under consideration. Makhachev's confirmation indicates that a fight announcement should be coming in the near future. The lightweight champion's statement suggests active negotiations for his next title defense are progressing.