Dana White blames hand injury for Islam absence, Makhachev responds by smashing heavy bag at full power (Video)
PERTH, AUSTRALIA - FEBRUARY 09: Islam Makhachev holds an open training session for fans and media during the UFC 284 Open Workouts at Elizabeth Quay - The Landing on February 9, 2023 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC) | Zuffa LLC via Getty Images Reigning UFC welterweight champion, Islam Makhachev, is unable to book his first 170-pound title defense because of a lingering hand injury that has yet to be resolved. Sound familiar?
“Islam’s coming back from a hand injury,” UFC CEO, Dana White, told reporters at last weekend’s UFC London post-fight press conference ( watch it here ). “As soon as he’s ready, we’ll figure out what’s next for him. ” Recent clips on Makhachev’s Instagram page suggest he’s ready.
So, about that hand injury … pic. twitter. com/BgSmpdb0jB — MMA Mania (@mmamania) March 23, 2026 Makhachev (28-1) jumped to welterweight to capture the 170-crown from Jack Della Maddalena atop the UFC 322 event back in November .
In addition to a return date, the promotion also needs to figure out the next division title contender, though all signs point to this rising star . This annual event might be a nice place to make it happen. Until then, expect to hear more bickering from the rest of the Top 5 ( see it here ).