Islam Makhachev is reportedly preparing for one of the biggest bouts in mixed martial arts, according to his manager. Despite speculation that Ian Machado Garry would be the next challenger for Makhachev’s UFC lightweight title, his manager Ali Abdelaziz has dismissed this possibility, indicating an even more significant fight is in the works.
Ali Abdelaziz Confirms UFC Is Planning a Major Bout for Makhachev
Earlier in the week, Ian Machado Garry expressed frustration on social media, accusing Makhachev of delaying their potential fight despite being the top contender. Garry wrote,
“I’m ready… He needs more time. Imagine being the number one pound-for-pound fighter on the planet and needing MORE time,”
reflecting the tense buildup surrounding the matchup.
Shortly after, Ali Abdelaziz responded on X, clarifying that Makhachev’s next opponent would not be Garry and hinted at a significantly bigger fight being arranged. According to Abdelaziz,
“This is, I can tell you, the UFC is working on a big fight for Islam Makhachev, and Ian’s name is not involved,”
and further added,
“Much bigger. One of the biggest fights in the UFC right now they can make. Stay tuned.”
Potential Matchup Against Ilia Topuria Gains Attention
The speculation surrounding Makhachev’s next fight points towards Ilia Topuria, who has expressed interest in moving up to welterweight for a high-profile clash. Makhachev is likely to face Justin Gaethje for a unification fight this summer, but rumors suggest Topuria might bypass that matchup in favor of a direct confrontation with Makhachev.
Given the limited options beyond Garry, and the improbability of surprise bouts with fighters like Conor McGregor or Khamzat Chimaev, Topuria emerges as the plausible “much bigger” challenge Abdelaziz teased. This potential fight carries significant anticipation due to both fighters’ skill and rising profiles.
Why This Fight Could Be a Game-Changer in MMA
The prospect of Islam Makhachev facing Ilia Topuria represents a major event in MMA, with implications for championship legacies and the sport’s landscape. A clash between these two athletes would not only excite fans but could reshape divisions and future matchmaking strategies.
As the UFC hones negotiations, followers of the sport remain eager to see whether this “much bigger” fight will materialize soon, potentially delivering one of the most talked-about encounters in recent memory.
This is, I can tell you, the UFC working on a big fight Islam Makhachev and ian name is not involved. Much bigger. One of the biggest fight in the UFC right now they can make. Stay tuned.😉
— Ali Abdelaziz (@AliAbdelaziz00) March 2, 2026
