Islam Makhachev has addressed Ian Machado Garry’s recent comments, asserting that the delay in their potential fight is not due to his injuries. Garry had accused the champion of shifting his timeline for a return, but Makhachev countered by stating he is prepared to compete whenever the UFC provides the necessary paperwork.
Makhachev States Contract is the Hold-Up Following Garry’s Challenge
On social media, Makhachev posted, “Don’t worry about my injuries. I’m ready at any time. I’m waiting for the contract.” This statement came in response to Garry’s assertion that Makhachev had cited a hand injury, Dana White had mentioned August as a return month, and Makhachev himself was now hinting at July, leading Garry to sarcastically remark, “We’re all waiting on you princess.”
Garry’s urgency stems from his pursuit of a first UFC title opportunity. The Irish welterweight has secured recent victories over Carlos Prates and Belal Muhammad, positioning him as a prominent contender in the welterweight division, waiting behind the new champion.
The apparent confusion surrounding Makhachev’s availability began with reports of a hand injury in March. UFC President Dana White initially stated he was unsure of the injury’s severity or duration. Subsequent reports indicated White publicly dismissed a July return, pointing instead to August, creating a discrepancy with Makhachev’s own hints and the promotion’s official stance – a gap that Garry capitalized on in his public statement.
The future landscape of the welterweight division remains unclear. The UFC has indicated an open title picture with multiple contenders vying for a shot, and Makhachev himself is reported to have several potential opponents for his first title defense. Alongside Garry, other names like Kamaru Usman and Michael Morales have been mentioned in relation to Makhachev’s potential return, suggesting Garry is not the sole candidate being considered.
Islam Makhachev is the reigning UFC welterweight champion and a former lightweight champion. He claimed the lightweight title in 2022, successfully defended it four times, and then moved up to defeat Jack Della Maddalena by unanimous decision at UFC 322 in November 2025 to win the welterweight belt. Makhachev is widely recognized as one of the sport’s top pound-for-pound fighters.
Despite the ongoing discussions and potential challengers, Garry has effectively put himself in contention by consistently winning and maintaining a visible presence. Makhachev’s recent response shifted the focus from his physical condition to the contractual process, indicating his readiness to fight once the official agreement is in place.
