Makhachev targets pre-Ramadan return to defend UFC title in early 2027

Islam Makhachev is eyeing a return to the octagon before February 2027, with the UFC welterweight champion telling Russian outlet Match TV that a pre-Ramadan fight date would be his ideal scenario. The 17-fight winning streak he set at UFC 330 in August — when he defeated Ian Machado Garry by decision — is the longest consecutive run in UFC history, and he is eager to add to it sooner rather than later.

Makhachev’s schedule, however, hinges on two factors: the UFC’s calendar and his own body. Post-fight medical checks revealed some minor spinal concerns that he is currently managing.

“After the fight, I had three MRIs and had my entire spine checked,” Makhachev said, in a Russian-to-English translation via Championship Rounds. “There are a few small issues, so I’m working on them. It’s nothing serious. I’m just strengthening my spine.”

The champion has had to make physical adjustments since moving up from lightweight, where he set the record for most successful title defences in that division with four. Those adaptations have not visibly affected his performances — he stopped Jack Della Maddalena to claim the welterweight belt before turning back Garry in a dominant outing — but he is clearly taking a measured approach to his recovery.

As a devout Muslim, Makhachev has long structured his fight schedule around Ramadan, typically avoiding competition during the holy month. With Ramadan set to begin in February 2027, that window is tighter than it might appear.

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

Makhachev currently sits at the top of the MMA Fighting pound-for-pound rankings and holds titles at both 155 and 170 pounds, a combination that leaves the UFC with no shortage of high-profile matchmaking options whenever he is cleared to compete.