Former two-division UFC champion, the Irishman Conor McGregor, announced his intention to fight welterweight titleholder, the Russian Islam Makhachev.
Conor McGregor, quoted by Bloodyelbow
I'm motivated. I'm self-motivated, and I for sure want a crack at that belt. I for sure want a crack at that 170-pound belt to go for the triple crown. ... Good fight, be a good scrap. Southpaw vs. southpaw. It was a good performance out of him, and fair play, he had the courage to do it, to go up. So yeah, I'm excited for it.
McGregor last stepped into the octagon in July 2021 at UFC 264, losing to Dustin Poirier by technical knockout (leg injury) in the first round. He holds a record of 22 wins and six losses.
Makhachev last fought in November 2025 at UFC 322, defeating Jack Della Maddalena by unanimous decision. He holds a record of 28 wins and one loss.
