Dana White gives updates on Conor McGregor, Islam Makhachev's next fights after UFC Seattle
The UFC boss sees big summer returns as possibilities for Islam Makhachev and Conor McGregor.
SEATTLE — Following UFC Seattle , UFC CEO Dana White offered the latest hints around some of the sport's biggest returns. With the road to the UFC's White House event ahead, many are waiting for announcements regarding both welterweight champion Islam Makhachev and Conor McGregor. Speaking at Saturday's post-fight press conference, White first addressed Makhachev's return, clarifying recent chatter that had begun to gain steam.
"[His manager] Ali [Abdelaziz] was out there talking and saying July. It's August that we're looking at," White said of the reigning UFC welterweight champion and pound-for-pound king . With Makhachev establishing himself atop the 170-pound division, his next appearance carries significant weight, marking the first defense of the former lightweight champ's new reign and potentially adding to his already impressive résumé.
In contrast to Abdelaziz's claim, White’s timeline pushes things back slightly, giving the promotion more time to finalize plans for one of its most dominant champions. As always, however, dates are only part of the equation. Opponent and location remain important as well — and for now, those details remain up in the air, with welterweight contenders like Ian Machado Garry pleading for the call.
☎️ pic. twitter. com/8RBFGoalVg — “The Future” Ian Machado Garry (@iangarryMMA) March 25, 2026 Then there’s another UFC Irishman: McGregor.