Islam Makhachev responds to Jordan Burroughs' challenge

Olympic wrestling champion Jordan Burroughs has issued a public challenge to UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev following his dominant performance at RAF Moscow. After defeating Magomed Kurbanaliev via a 10-0 technical fall, Burroughs expressed his desire to face Makhachev in Russia. Makhachev responded by accepting the challenge on the condition that the bout takes place under MMA rules.

Separately, undefeated UFC welterweight contender Shavkat Rakhmonov has provided updates on his career and health. Rakhmonov, who has been sidelined for nearly two years due to recurring knee injuries, discussed his decision to fight Ian Machado Garry while injured in late 2024, describing it as a daring ‘Kazakh way’ that fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov or Makhachev might have avoided.

Rakhmonov, who is currently recovering from surgery, expressed confidence in a potential matchup against Makhachev, stating he believes his striking and takedown defense would allow him to perform well against the champion. He is currently targeting a return to the octagon in early 2027.