Islam Makhachev Predicts UFC Move for Teammate, Responds

Islam Makhachev is shaping the future of the UFC's lightweight division from the outside, revealing a strong likelihood that his undefeated teammate, Usman Nurmagomedov, will soon join him on the roster. The reigning welterweight champion's comments come as he handle the aftermath of his latest title defense and fields calls for immediate rematches.

Is Usman Nurmagomedov UFC-bound?

Makhachev believes the stars are aligning for his longtime training partner. Speaking to Russian outlet Match TV, he gave a 90% probability that Nurmagomedov signs with the UFC now that his PFL contract is complete. The champion argued it's the perfect time for the move, suggesting Nurmagomedov has outgrown his current competition. "He needs to prove he's the best in the world," Makhachev said. He pointed to the deep pool of contenders at lightweight, the division he and mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov once ruled, as the ideal proving ground. Fans can track the evolving divisional picture on our [standings](/standings) page.

Ian Machado Garry demands an immediate rematch

Fresh off his unanimous decision loss to Makhachev at UFC 330 last month, Ian Machado Garry is already campaigning for a second shot. The Irish contender, who was dropped in the second round but fought to the final bell, believes he has the formula to win a rematch right now. "I feel like if I fight him right now, I beat him," Machado Garry told DAZN. He credited his team's preparation and his own confidence, stating he simply needed to increase his volume and venom in a potential second fight. His immediate desire is to get back into the octagon as soon as physically possible against anyone, a sentiment that shows his relentless drive to climb back to the top.

What's next in the welterweight title picture?

While Garry eyes a rematch, he acknowledges the title path currently runs through Carlos Prates. Makhachev's next defense is expected to be against the top-ranked Prates. Garry, however, has identified his own route back to contention. He is targeting a fight with the undefeated Michael Morales, believing a decisive win would make his case for another title shot undeniable. "Whether Islam wins, whether Carlos Prates wins the next fight, it's two massive rematches," Garry explained. This sets up a clear hierarchy: a Makhachev vs. Prates title bout, with Garry waiting in the wings should he get past Morales.

King Green recalls Makhachev's 'unreal' strength

Veteran fighter King Green, who lost to Makhachev by first-round stoppage in 2022, recently offered a unique perspective on the champion's prowess. On a live stream, Green described the physical strength he felt while grappling with Makhachev as unlike anything else in his 54-fight career. He likened the experience to competing against athletes who use performance-enhancing drugs, though he stopped short of making a direct accusation. Green, who took the fight on short notice, was dominated from the opening bell. He rides a four-fight win streak into his next bout at UFC 332 on October 3.

• Makhachev estimates a 90% chance his teammate, undefeated lightweight Usman Nurmagomedov, signs with the UFC soon.
• Ian Machado Garry, who lost to Makhachev at UFC 330 in August, is confident he would win an immediate rematch.
• Garry is targeting a fight with Michael Morales to position himself for another title shot, whether against Makhachev or Carlos Prates.
• Veteran King Green says Makhachev's strength during their 2022 fight was unparalleled in his long career.