Khabib Nurmagomedov just can’t help himself when it comes to breaking news about his protege, Islam Makhachev. The retired UFC legend recently spilled the beans on Makhachev’s next fight date, catching everyone off guard.
At a press conference in Malaysia, Khabib Nurmagomedov casually dropped a bombshell. He revealed that Makhachev will defend his lightweight title in January 2025. But, he played coy about the opponent.
“UFC offered us a fight in January. We accepted it. UFC will make the announcement soon, including where it will take place and who Islam Makhachev’s opponent will be. I won’t say anything about it myself, but I can say that we are focused on January.”
The fight world is buzzing with speculation. Who’ll be brave enough to face Islam Makhachev? Most likely, it will be the #1 contender, Arman Tsarukyan, who will face the lightweight champion in a rematch.
Makhachev’s been on a tear since claiming the belt. He’s racked up three title defenses already. If he wins in January, he’ll surpass Khabib Nurmagomedov’s record. The UFC brass must be scratching their heads right now. They probably had a whole media blitz planned. Now Khabib’s gone and let the cat out of the bag.
Arman Tsarukyan Knows When Islam Makhachev Fight Will Happen
Arman Tsarukyan’s been playing the waiting game, but it looks like his patience might finally pay off. The lightweight contender’s been eyeing that shiny UFC belt for a while now. Tsarukyan recently dropped a bombshell about his upcoming title shot against Islam Makhachev. He’s got the inside scoop, and he’s not shy about sharing it.
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According to Arman, the UFC’s whispering sweet nothings about an early 2025 showdown. Makhachev has been nursing a hand injury and is putting his octagon return on ice. But Tsarukyan is in full-on training mode, ready to rumble at a moment’s notice.
“I knew that [the fight would happen next year], I was informed that this fight would not happen this year [and that] it will take place early next year,” said Tsarukyan via Red Corner MMA.
Maybe the delay’s a blessing in disguise for both the athletes. Tsarukyan is not just focused on Makhachev, though. He’s got opinions on the whole lightweight division. He is throwing shade left and right. Apparently, no one in the top five deserves an interim title shot.
Also Read: Team Khabib Reveals Unexpected Welterweight Opponent For Potential Islam Makhachev Fight
