Islam Makhachev to Defend Title in 2025

Khabib Nurmagomedov announced that his protege, Islam Makhachev, will return to the Octagon to defend his UFC lightweight title at UFC 311 in January 2025. Makhachev had been sidelined due to a hand injury, but the UFC has offered them a fight that has been accepted. While the specific opponent remains undisclosed, it is speculated that it will likely be #1 contender Arman Tsarukyan, with whom Makhachev previously fought in 2019. If Makhachev wins, he would surpass Khabib's record for most title defenses at lightweight. Khabib emphasized the growth of the sport and the emergence of new challengers, highlighting that Makhachev is not only a champion but also the best pound-for-pound fighter currently. The exact date and location for UFC 311 are yet to be announced, with the UFC expected to reveal this information soon.