Islam Makhachev (28-1) has confirmed he is interested in competing under the Zuffa Boxing banner after holding discussions about a future crossover.
The UFC welterweight champion revealed he was told to reach out whenever he was ready to make the move, with Makhachev making it clear he is open to the opportunity.
“We had good talks about a boxing match in Zuffa Boxing. They told me, ‘When you’re ready for boxing, just let me know,'” Makhachev said.
When asked if he would seriously consider crossing over,
“Why not? Just ask Dana. I’m ready anytime,” Makhachev replied.
For now, Makhachev’s focus remains on defending his welterweight title against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 on August 15. He also dismissed recent retirement speculation, insisting he wants to continue fighting for years and break more UFC records.
A win over Machado Garry would extend Makhachev’s unbeaten UFC streak and further strengthen his legacy as one of the UFC’s all-time greats.