UFC Champ Islam Makhachev Claims He's Accepted Opponent in Massive Next Fight Update

UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev has announced he has verbally accepted an opponent for his next fight, with UFC CEO Dana White indicating a planned return in August. Makhachev moved up to welterweight last year, defeating Jack Della Maddalena by unanimous decision at UFC 322 to become a two-division champion. Reporter Ariel Helwani had previously reported on targeted fights for Makhachev, and the champion has now confirmed a matchup is in place, though the specific opponent has not yet been officially named.