Islam Makhachev has been dealing with a “few small issues” after his latest fight.

Most recently, welterweight titleholder Makhachev defeated Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 by unanimous decision to successfully defend his 170-pound strap.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – AUGUST 15: Islam Makhachev of Russia and Ian Machado Garry of Ireland embrace after a welterweight title bout during UFC 330 at Xfinity Mobile Arena on August 15, 2026, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

The Russian phenom who’s soon going to turn 35 wants to fight again before Ramadan 2027. During a recent interview with MatchTV, Pound-for-Pound king Makhachev revealed that after the Garry bout, he has been dealing with minor injuries and also had his entire spine checked. He said:

“After the fight [UFC 330], I had three MRIs and had my entire spine checked. There are a few small issues, so I’m working on them. It’s nothing serious. I’m just strengthening my spine.”

About when he hopes to enter the octagon again to defend his title, Makhachev added:

“We’ll wait for the UFC to call. I think the ideal scenario would be to fight before Ramadan. Ramadan starts for us in February. A date before Ramadan would be ideal.”

Check out Islam Makhachev’s comments below:

Islam Makhachev will most likely face Carlos Prates next. The Brazilian is riding a three-fight knockout streak, including wins over two former UFC champions, and is now the No. 1 contender. Makhachev also strongly believes “The Nightmare” deserves the next title shot.

Islam Makhachev says there’s “no time to relax” as the 170-pound UFC champion

In the same interview, two-division titleholder Islam Makhachev also added that there’s no time to relax, as he always has to stay busy to stay prepared for young, hungry contenders like Carlos Prates and the undefeated Michael Morales. He said:

“There are contenders who make me train every day. There are at least two good potential opponents: Carlos Prates and Michael Morales… There’s no time to relax. Prates is a very interesting opponent. Shavkat Rakhmonov also wants to fight, so let him recover and come back. They’re hoping to finish me, but I’ll be defending my belt.”

Check out Islam Makhachev’s comments below:

Subham

Subham is a writer and editor with experience spanning MMA, Health & Fitness, true crime, and pop culture. He has previously worked with Sportskeeda MMA, SK True Crime, and SK Pop, Movies, and Shows.
He currently covers the UFC for LowKickMMA and MMA Pros Picks.