Khabib Nurmagomedov leaks Islam Makhachev’s next UFC title fight at historic venue after he gave up belt

When one of his handlers attempted to hold him back from leaking the information, the legendary 39-0 champion noted: “This is his deal with UFC, I have no deal with UFC, this is his problem. But we have deal with UFC that he is going to fight in Madison Square Garden.”

That would place Makhachev as the headliner of the promotion’s annual New York City card in early November every year. As of the time of writing, the first available Saturday in the month of November at the famed venue is Saturday November 15th.

Islam Makhachev is pushing to become two-weight world champion

After breaking Nurmagomedov’s record for lightweight title defences that had stood and only ever been equalled for decades, Makhachev decided to move up and challenge for a new title. He takes on Jack Della Maddalena, who dethroned the Russian’s teammate Belal Muhammad earlier this year.

The news of the lightweight champion’s move up in weight came as a disappointment to the fanbase as the majority of fans were hopeful of seeing a super fight between Makhachev and Ilia Topuria, who has since moved up from featherweight and scooped up the vacant belt.

However, the fight with Della Maddalena remains a fascinating and massive matchup that will capture fans’ attention. The move up in weights will prove a rare new challenge for the Russian, who has looked unbeatable for years.