Islam Makhachev Set for January Title Defense, Confirms Khabib Nurmagomedov

In a significant development for the UFC’s lightweight division, former champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has revealed that his protégé and current lightweight king, Islam Makhachev, is slated to defend his title in January 2025. This announcement comes as welcome news for MMA fans eagerly anticipating the return of the pound-for-pound great.

Khabib Nurmagomedov says Islam Makhachev accepted a fight in January ‼️

Rematch with Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311 ❓️ pic.twitter.com/hkzoaoyA9U

— Fight 4 Yours (@fight_4_yours) September 29, 2024

Nurmagomedov, speaking in a recent interview with Ushatayka, disclosed that the UFC has already extended an offer for Makhachev’s next title defense. “UFC offered us a fight already, in January. We accepted it,” Nurmagomedov stated, adding that the promotion will soon announce the specific details regarding the location and opponent.

While the identity of Makhachev’s challenger remains under wraps, speculation is rife within the MMA community. Given the current landscape of the lightweight division, top contender Arman Tsarukyan is likely the frontrunner for the title shot.

Makhachev’s last outing saw him successfully defend his belt against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 in June, showcasing his dominance with a fifth-round submission victory. This upcoming fight in January will mark Makhachev’s fourth title defense, potentially setting him up to break the long-standing record for most lightweight title defenses in UFC history.

The timing of this fight is particularly intriguing, as it falls just before the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, which Makhachev observes. This scheduling could potentially allow for two Makhachev fights in 2025, with one early in the year and another following Ramadan.

Nurmagomedov’s comments also touched on the evolving landscape of MMA, noting the constant emergence of new talent. “This sport is growing very quickly. Lots of new youngsters emerging. There will always be good opponents for Islam,” he remarked, emphasizing Makhachev’s status not just as a champion, but as the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world.

The UFC’s first event of 2025 is shaping up to be a blockbuster, with Makhachev’s title defense likely to headline UFC 311. While the venue has yet to be confirmed, recent years have seen January events take place in various locations including Brazil, California, and Toronto.

For Makhachev, this fight represents more than just another title defense. A victory would cement his legacy in the lightweight division, surpassing the achievements of his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, who retired with three successful title defenses. It would also further solidify Makhachev’s position atop the pound-for-pound rankings.