Dana White confirms Makhachev's return: "It will be in August"

Dana White fired back on social media after Ali Abdelaziz — manager of Islam Makhachev — claimed that the Dagestani star had already signed a fight for July. The UFC CEO responded with a dose of sarcasm: “Not true… it’ll be in August.”

Abdelaziz had told TMZ Sports that his fighter already had a deal locked in, a matchup that would follow Makhachev’s November win at Madison Square Garden over Jack Della Maddalena. This would mark his first title defense in the division, something he originally hoped to do after Ramadan. A hand injury, however, pushed those plans back.

McGregor set for comeback

One factor pushing the bout to August could be the long‑awaited return of Conor McGregor. The former champ is expected to step back into the Octagon in July — during International Fight Week in Las Vegas — ending a five‑year layoff. Even at 37, he remains the UFC’s biggest draw.

Right now, the most realistic opponents for Makhachev appear to be Ian Garry or Michael Morales, with the Irishman holding the edge after recent wins over Carlos Prates and Belal Muhammad. No official challenger has been named yet.

If Makhachev wins in August — and with Ilia Topuria gearing up for his own major fight — the stars could align for a massive showdown between the two early next year. For now, though, that’s still speculation.

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