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Team Khabib’s Manager Confirms Islam Makhachev’s Summer Fight Is Locked In Amid Injury Concerns
Islam Makhachev (Image Credits: Imagn)

Team Khabib’s Manager Confirms Islam Makhachev’s Summer Fight Is Locked In Amid Injury Concerns

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports  |  By Pavan Sharma  |  Last updated Mar 25, 2026 12:21 PM ET

There is no doubt that fans want to see Islam Makhachev back as soon as possible. The Dagestani fighter is currently one of the biggest stars. As he waits for his first title defense, his manager has now given an update. Makhachev’s summer is already planned, and Ali Abdelaziz has made sure everyone knows it.

The manager confirmed a done deal for July, Makhachev defending his welterweight title against the division’s number one contender. The UFC announcement is expected to happen soon. Notably, he even claims that Makhachev would have accepted a fight against Ilia Topuria in June. However, the injury derailed that plan.

“Islam got offered a different fight at welterweight to be the main event, and Islam said let’s do this in July due to a hand injury. If this Ilia fight was offered in June, Islam would accept even if he has one leg. But Islam already has a fight in the summer against the No.1 contender, it’s a done deal, and the UFC will announce it very soon,” Abdelaziz said.

The contender picture at welterweight points in two directions. Michael Morales has been the loudest voice in the title conversation. On the other hand, Ian Garry represents the other credible option as he has already beaten big names like Belal Muhammad, Carlos Prates, and more. Defending it against the legitimate number one contender is what separates a division visit from a genuine dual championship reign.

Ali Abdelaziz Reveals Islam Makhachev Never Knew About Ilia Topuria’s Fight Offer

Abdelaziz said Makhachev was asleep and had no idea the UFC even reached out about a possible fight with Topuria. He explained that after El Matador asked for too much money, the UFC itself said the fight was off. However, he does not blame any fighter for trying to earn as much as possible.

“After that I got call beck, “Never mind fight not gonna happen” before ever I talked with Islam. There’re so many ways to turned down the fight. I can say, “I will fight Francis Ngannou, give me $50million.” I don’t blame anyone for trying the most money they can,” Abdelaziz said. 

Abdelaziz closed the door in June. He opened the July window. The champion has just tied one of the sport’s most celebrated records. He is operating at the peak of his abilities across two weight classes. The announcement will come soon. The welterweight division will soon find out who gets the call.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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