Khabib Nurmagomedov leaks Islam Makhachev's next fight

Khabib Nurmagomedov has revealed huge news surrounding Islam Makhachev and his next assignment inside the octagon.

Makhachev hasn’t competed since getting his hands raised following a dog-fight with Dustin Poirier. Much speculation has circulated regarding his next matchup, but we now have more information on the date he can be expected to make the walk to the cage.

During a recent interview, Khabib Nurmagomedov discussed Islam Makhachev’s reign as the UFC lightweight champion.

“There is always going to be some challenges,” Khabib told Ushatayka. “[there will always be] new contenders for the title.”

“This sport is growing very quickly. There is a lot of new, young guys. There will be good opponents for Islam always.”

Nurmagomedov later gave insight into Makhachev’s next outing.

“The UFC offered us a fight in January, we accepted it. The UFC will very soon make an announcement where it will take place and who will be Islam’s opponent.”

As promised, Islam Makhachev has been the perfect successor to Khabib Nurmagomedov.

The Dagestani has held gold for almost two years and managed to claim the pound-for-pound number one spot during that time.

Now, according to Khabib, the lightweight king will feature at UFC 311 in January.

Related: Islam Makhachev wants Conor McGregor matchup

Who will Islam Makhachev defend his title against next?

With a date set in stone, all eyes are glued on who Islam Makhachev will be putting his title on the line against next.

The 32-year-old has already dismissed matchups with several potential opponents, but there is arguably one clear contender left for the champion.

Over 5 years after losing a unanimous decision to Makhachev, Arman Tsarukyan has emerged as the standout contender in the division.

The Armenian has won each of his last four fights, beating Charles Oliveira last time out. 

Since the loss to Makhachev, Tsarukyan has won 9 of 10 fights and will be looking to avenge his defeat to the champ should he get the opportunity.