Islam Makhachev Next Fight: UFC Return Timeline, Opponents, And Title Defense Status

UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev is preparing for his highly anticipated return to the Octagon, with matchmaking negotiations ramping up for the final quarter of 2026. As the pound-for-pound king continues to dominate the lightweight division, fight fans are eagerly awaiting confirmation of his next opponent and event date.

Championship Contenders and the 155-Pound Hierarchy

Makhachev’s reign at lightweight has cleared out several top-tier contenders, leaving UFC matchmakers with two distinct paths: a top-ranked lightweight contender or a champion-versus-champion superfight. The leading candidate in the 155-pound division remains Arman Tsarukyan, who earned a title shot following an impressive streak of high-profile victories.

A rematch against Tsarukyan presents a compelling narrative given their competitive first encounter in 2019. However, outside challengers are also looming. Featherweight champion Ilia Topuria has repeatedly expressed interest in moving up to test Makhachev's dominant grappling, while veteran contenders like Justin Gaethje and Charles Oliveira remain active in the division's top five.

• Arman Tsarukyan: Top lightweight contender seeking a championship rematch.
• Superfight Contenders: Featherweight and Welterweight champions seeking cross-division fights.
• Lightweight Contenders: Top-five ranked strikers awaiting their title shot opportunity.

How to Watch, Streaming Access, and Broadcast Schedule

When Makhachev’s next title defense is officially locked in, the event will headline a major UFC Pay-Per-View card. In the United States, fight fans can stream the main card exclusively through ESPN+ PPV, while the preliminary card will be available on ESPN and UFC Fight Pass. International viewers can access the broadcast via localized rightsholders, including TNT Sports in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

• United States: Main Card streaming exclusively on ESPN+ PPV (Prelims on ESPN / ESPN+).
• United Kingdom: Live broadcast available on TNT Sports and TNT Sports Box Office.
• Canada & Australia: Streamed via Main Event, Kayo Sports, and UFC Fight Pass.
• Global Access: Select international markets can stream directly via UFC Fight Pass.

Standard UFC PPV events typically kick off with early prelims at 6:00 PM ET, followed by the main card broadcast at 10:00 PM ET. Makhachev’s main event walkout usually takes place around 12:15 AM ET, depending on the length of the undercard bouts.

Two-Division Ambitions and UFC Octagon Roadmap

Beyond defending his 155-pound crown, Makhachev has made no secret of his desire to capture a second UFC championship belt at Welterweight (170 lbs). UFC management has historically required dominant champions to clear out their primary division before stepping up for a second title.

If Makhachev successfully defends his lightweight title in late 2026, a move up to 170 pounds could become reality in early 2027. Makhachev’s team has echoed the stance that achieving double-champion status would solidify his legacy among the greatest mixed martial artists in combat sports history.

For now, UFC officials are expected to finalize contract details in the coming weeks, setting up what promises to be one of the biggest pay-per-view events of the year.