Khabib confirms Makhachev fight at Madison Square Garden

The UFC is gearing up to close out the year with a bang. After a quiet September with no numbered events on the calendar, the premier mixed martial arts promotion has unveiled two major headliners for October—and the November card announcement looks imminent.

In a move that’s already electrifying fans, MMA legend Khabib Nurmagomedov confirmed one of the most anticipated matchups of the season: reigning lightweight champ Islam Makhachev will face rising star Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight world title.

MSG showdown

“We’ve got a deal. Islam is fighting at Madison Square Garden—Maddalena’s team gave the green light,” Khabib revealed during an interview on The Cornell Combat Sports Show.

The bout is slated for one of the UFC’s marquee dates and marks Makhachev’s debut at the iconic New York venue. Known as the “Mecca of Combat Sports,” MSG has hosted some of the most legendary fights in history—from Muhammad Ali to Conor McGregor—and now Makhachev is set to add his name to that storied legacy.

Khabib hopes McGregor sees the error of his ways

During the interview, Khabib took a moment to address the latest controversy surrounding Conor McGregor. The Irish fighter has been making headlines again after being found guilty of a sexual assault that occurred in 2018—a case that has reignited debate over his turbulent lifestyle and public persona.

McGregor, who recently cleared his first UFC-administered drug test, has long been known for his brash behavior and headline-grabbing antics outside the Octagon. But Khabib believes there’s still hope for change.

“This is punishment. Doesn’t matter how you bad. If he gonna change, he can change with him so many other lives too. I think he has a chance, and he needs to change the way he lives. That’s why I truly hope he does,” Khabib he said, striking a rare tone of empathy toward his longtime rival.

Adding to the wave of high-profile MMA matchups this fall, Khabib also confirmed that another of his protégés, Bellator lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov, will step back into the cage for a rematch against Irish contender Paul Hughes. The bout is scheduled for Friday, October 4, in Dubai, with the main card expected to air around 2 p.m. EST.

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