Islam Makhachev recently explained his decision to turn down a UFC 324 main event spot. The reigning UFC welterweight champion emphasized that the choice was due to timing rather than who the opponent was.
Makhachev is coming off a milestone win that solidified his place among the all-time greats. He secured a dominant unanimous decision win over Jack Della Maddalena to capture the welterweight title at UFC 322. With the win, Makhachev joined the list of fighters to become two-division UFC champions.
Although his bout with Della Maddalena was one-sided, Makhachev wants to ensure he can complete a full training camp. Competing at UFC 324, scheduled for Jan. 24, would have required a quick turnaround. Because of that, he declined the offer.
“I don’t know [when I will return] yet, but I was offered a fight for January,” Makhachev said during an interview with Ushatayka (translated). “January, I think is an impossible date because I had already been in camp for three months and they called me in December. [The UFC] were like, ‘You’ll be fighting in January.’”
He continued:
“It was already too late, I needed to leave for camp and be ready for January. I told them I definitely won’t fight in January.”
Islam Makhachev Reveals Who He Would Have Faced at UFC 324
Islam Makhachev also revealed who he likely would have faced had he agreed to compete at UFC 324. The Dagestani confirmed that he planned to stay at 170 pounds, so it wouldn’t have been a lightweight bout.
Based on what unfolded at UFC 322, it appears the promotion wanted to capitalize on a star-making performance. That night, surging contender Michael Morales earned a 1st round TKO win over Sean Brady. What made the win more impressive was that Brady entered the fight as the No. 1 ranked UFC welterweight.
Speaking with Ushatayka, Makhachev said he believes that is who the matchmakers had in mind.
“They didn’t tell me the name, but honestly, I think it was [Michael] Morales,” Makhachev said. “That’s my opinion. They didn’t say the name, they just asked whether I would fight in January or not.”
Makhachev also added that he was unsure whether Kamaru Usman was being considered for the title shot.
“That’s just my guess. I don’t know for sure [whether Usman was considered] and neither does my manager.”
Makhachev Reveals Preferred Timetable for His Return
Makhachev also revealed when he would prefer to return to the octagon and defend his UFC welterweight championship. There are several contenders worthy of a title shot, so he will have no shortage of appealing options available.
Makhachev typically avoids competing during Ramadan. Because of changes made related to fasting during that time, it is understandable why he does so.
The Dagestani said he would be interested in competing once Ramadan is over. That gives the UFC matchmakers a clear timeframe to schedule his next fight.
“I think [my next fight] will be after Ramadan for sure. April, May, June.” Makachaev told Ushatayka. “If they want to wait and put it at the White House, then I’ll wait. If not, then I can fight earlier.
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