Islam Makhachev's Next Move: Is The UFC Lightweight King Eyeing Welterweight Gold In 2026?

UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev continues to dominate the pound-for-pound rankings as the mixed martial arts world eagerly anticipates his next octagon appearance. With the 155-pound division constantly producing hungry new contenders, Makhachev’s strategic planning for the remainder of 2026 will be critical to cementing his legacy as one of the greatest lightweight champions in UFC history.

The Reign of Dagestan’s Finest and the Looming Tsarukyan Rematch

Since capturing the vacant lightweight title in late 2022, Islam Makhachev has transformed from Khabib Nurmagomedov’s highly touted protégé into an absolute sovereign of the division. His spectacular submission victory over Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 proved that his striking defense and submission game remain elite under extreme pressure. Makhachev's ability to blend high-level combat sambo with sharp, counter-striking has left the lightweight division with few answers.

The most pressing challenge on the champion's horizon is a highly anticipated rematch with number-one contender Arman Tsarukyan. The two first clashed in 2019 during Tsarukyan's short-notice UFC debut, resulting in a highly competitive decision win for Makhachev. Years later, both fighters have evolved significantly, making their potential 2026 showdown one of the most tactically intriguing matchups in modern MMA history.

Broadcast Access: How to Watch Islam Makhachev Live

Staying updated on the champion's fight schedule is essential for combat sports fans globally. UFC pay-per-view events featuring championship bouts are distributed through specific regional broadcasters.

• United States: All major UFC PPV events stream exclusively on ESPN+ (requires an active subscription and PPV purchase).
• United Kingdom: Fans can watch the action live on TNT Sports or stream via the Discovery+ app.
• Australia: Events are broadcast live via Main Event on Kayo Sports and Foxtel.
• Global Streaming: The UFC Fight Pass platform offers preliminary bouts and localized coverage for international markets.

Official press conferences, weigh-ins, and promotional coverage like UFC Embedded are available for free on the official UFC YouTube channel in the week leading up to the fight.

Two-Division Glory and the 2026 Lightweight Title Outlook

While defending his lightweight crown remains the immediate priority, Makhachev has made no secret of his desire to achieve "champ-champ" status. The allure of moving up to the 170-pound welterweight division has heavily influenced his public statements throughout the year. Securing a second belt would elevate Makhachev into an elite echelon of fighters, joining the likes of Georges St-Pierre, Conor McGregor, and Amanda Nunes.

However, UFC management historically prefers champions to clear out their respective divisions before chasing secondary gold. With contenders like Tsarukyan demanding their shot, Makhachev's road to the welterweight division must go through the absolute best of the 155-pound ranks first. Whether he pursues a legacy-defining rematch or tests the waters at welterweight, the combat sports world will be watching his every move in 2026.