Islam Makhachev Suffers Hand Injury

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Mar 10, 2026 4:32 AM ET

UFC CEO Dana White confirmed that Islam Makhachev is battling a hand injury that has scrapped any immediate plans for his next title defense.

The news comes as a blow to fans who were hoping to see the dominant two-weight champion headline the UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House this June. Because of the injury, the UFC moved forward with Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje for the lightweight title. White admitted that until further medical evaluations are complete, the promotion cannot even begin to target a return date for the champion. The injury news also served as a direct rebuttal to reports claiming a bout between Makhachev and Topuria was a “done deal” for the White House card.

Dana White says Islam Makhachev is dealing with a hand injury and his return timeline is unknown.

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— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) March 9, 2026

“I don’t know (when we can expect Makhachev back), he’s got some hand issues, I know that. I don’t know how serious the hand issues are and how long that will keep him out, but yeah, he’s injured,” White said

The Implications

That was understandably a blow for UFC fans, who would have seen Topuria have the chance to fight for a third belt. And in doing so, become the first person in UFC history to win a title in a third weight class. Reporter Ariel Helwani revealed that the injury prevented the fight from being made. However, if Ilia comes through his next fight against Justin, there is a strong chance the fight gets made.

“Mid last week, [the UFC] finally reach out with two questions. The promotion originally wanted Kayla Harrison to fight Amanda Nunes, but when the former said she wouldn’t be ready in time, another title fight was needed for the card. [They asked Topuria], ‘What are you more interested in? “Ilia Topuria vs Islam Makhachev, or Ilia Topuria vs Justin Gaethje? What interests you more? “And oh, by the way, [Makhachev’s] at 170 pounds, this one’s at 55.’ Give me Islam, I’m going up to 170 pounds,” Helwani said

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

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