The UFC's plans for an explosive start to 2026 are in disarray, and a legendary fighter's influence is at the heart of it. Khabib Nurmagomedov, a name that resonates with MMA fans, has potentially derailed the organization's hopes for a blockbuster comeback.
The UFC's vision for a thrilling return to action in the new year was centered around Islam Makhachev, the welterweight champion. With several top stars on the sidelines, the promotion aimed to capitalize on Makhachev's star power. But here's where it gets controversial: the UFC's plan for an early Makhachev comeback has seemingly been vetoed by none other than his close associate, Khabib.
The UFC's roster is facing a unique challenge with multiple champions out of action. Ilia Topuria's absence led to the creation of an interim title, and Khamzat Chimaev's delayed return adds to the complications. The promotion was eager to have Makhachev back in the octagon, but his return date remains uncertain.
The welterweight division is brimming with talent, and the debate over Makhachev's next opponent is a hot topic. Who poses the biggest threat to the champion's reign? The UFC's welterweight rankings offer a glimpse into the potential contenders:
- Jack Della Maddalena
- Ian Machado Garry
- Shavkat Rakhmonov
- Michael Morales
- Belal Muhammad
- Carlos Prates
- Sean Brady
- Kamaru Usman
- Leon Edwards
- Joaquin Buckley
The UFC community is buzzing with speculation. Who will get the nod to challenge Makhachev? The initial discussions pointed towards a January showdown with either Kamaru Usman or Ian Machado Garry.
Makhachev's dominance at UFC 322, where he defeated Jack Della Maddalena to claim the 170-pound title, set the stage for exciting matchups. The UFC was keen to capitalize on this momentum, but Makhachev's team, led by manager Ali Abdelaziz, had other ideas.
In a revealing interview, Abdelaziz shared that the UFC had proposed a January 28th fight, which didn't align with any scheduled events. This date discrepancy adds an intriguing twist to the narrative. Abdelaziz confirmed that both Usman and Garry were considered, but Khabib Nurmagomedov put a stop to the discussions, demanding silence on the matter.
And this is the part most people miss: Ali Abdelaziz's bold statement about Ian Machado Garry being the least deserving contender has sparked debate. He believes Garry lacks the signature performance to warrant a title shot, but acknowledges the dreams of all contenders. Abdelaziz predicts a victory for Usman over Garry and doubts Garry's ability to withstand Makhachev's prowess.
What do you think about Khabib's involvement in Makhachev's comeback plans? Is Ali Abdelaziz right about Ian Machado Garry's contender status? Share your thoughts and join the debate!
