‘I’m waiting for the contract’: Islam Makhachev responds to Ian Machado Garry’s callout over return date

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev responded to Ian Machado Garry's callout on social media, stating he is ready to fight at any time and that the delay is due to the UFC not yet providing a contract. UFC president Dana White had previously cited hand issues for Makhachev and suggested August as a realistic return window, while Makhachev himself had hinted at a July return. Multiple contenders including Garry, Michael Morales, and Kamaru Usman are awaiting a title shot, with no challenger officially confirmed.