Unbiased AI-powered news
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.
yardbarker.comIslam 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.
ESPNThe 17-year-old amateur surprised his father with a caddie swap on the 18th hole at Shinnecock Hills on Father's Day. Russell finished his first U.S. Open at 7 over par.
The 15-year-old scored 94 off 29 balls, including 10 fours and eight sixes, as India A reached 377 for 9 against Sri Lanka A in Dambulla.
WWE is evaluating a possible event on the White House lawn following the UFC Freedom 250 card held there last weekend. The mixed-martial-arts show featured a main-event finish and post-fight remarks between two fighters.