Javier Mendez eyes December return for UFC champion Islam Makhachev

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev could return to the Octagon as early as December for UFC 335 in Las Vegas. His coach, Javier Mendez, stated that the fighter requires a two-month training camp to prepare for his next contest. Makhachev recently set a UFC record by securing his 17th consecutive win with a unanimous decision against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330. While the promotion has not finalized an opponent, Carlos Prates is considered a potential candidate for the main event. The card was previously linked to middleweight champion Sean Strickland, but his availability remains uncertain due to a shoulder injury sustained prior to his match with Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 328.

• 6:23 AMYahoo Sports — Coach Hints at Islam Makhachev’s Potential UFC Return Date