sports
Islam Makhachev declines outside wrestling offers to focus on UFC title defense
The UFC welterweight champion confirmed he has been asked to compete outside the organization but said his focus remains on defending his title this summer.
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Islam Makhachev said he has been asked to compete in matches outside the UFC but will not take part in any wrestling bouts before his next title defense. The champion stated his focus remains on defending the welterweight belt against Ian Machado Garry in summer 2026 and staying committed to mixed martial arts.
Makhachev defeated Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 in his most recent fight after moving up from lightweight.
Real American Freestyle posted on social media that it had approached Makhachev for a wrestling match. Tweets and Instagram posts from the organization showed the outreach. Makhachev was also offered a spot at Karate Combat, the promotion that recently hosted Jorge Masvidal versus Nate Diaz 2 in an open-weight contest.
During a video posted on Adam Zubayraev’s YouTube channel, Makhachev confirmed he had received offers from outside organizations without naming them. Arman Tsarukyan has taken a different approach. He has made nine appearances in wrestling and grappling matches since his last UFC fight against Dan Hooker eight months before June 21, 2026.
Com reported that several fighters have begun accepting wrestling and grappling matches between UFC bouts to stay active, a trend the site said appears likely to continue.
