Islam Makhachev already has a potential timeline in mind for his second Welterweight title defense.
Makhachev successfully defended his 170-pound crown for the first time last month, defeating Ian Machado Garry in UFC 330’s main event (watch highlights). However, the dominant champion apparently didn’t leave Philadelphia completely unscathed.
During a recent interview, Makhachev revealed that he underwent several medical examinations after the fight, which uncovered some minor issues with his spine.
“After the fight, I had three MRIs and had my entire spine checked,” Makhachev said. “There are a few small issues, so I’m working on them. It’s nothing serious. I’m just strengthening my spine.
“We’ll wait for the UFC to call,” he continued. “I think the ideal scenario would be to fight before Ramadan. Ramadan starts for us in February. A date before Ramadan would be ideal.”
Ramadan is expected to begin around Feb. 8, 2027, although the official date depends on the sighting of the moon. That gives UFC a relatively small window to book Makhachev’s next title defense, likely sometime in December 2026 or January 2027.
The most likely challenger appears to be Brazilian knockout artist Carlos Prates, who has repeatedly claimed UFC promised him the next Welterweight title shot. “The Nightmare” has knocked out Geoff Neal, Leon Edwards and former champion Jack Della Maddalena in three consecutive appearances, making a compelling case for the opportunity.
Makhachev previously suggested that Prates should fight undefeated contender Michael Morales to determine the next title challenger, but Prates has made it clear that he believes he has already done enough.
If UFC can book Makhachev before Ramadan, it would also leave the door open for him to compete twice in 2027. The former Lightweight king has typically fought twice per year when healthy, and an early title defense would allow him to return again in late summer or fall.
First, though, Makhachev must finish strengthening his spine — and UFC must decide whether Prates is officially next.
