Dana White Confirms Makhachev Return in August as UFC Freedom 250 Takes Shape

UFC president Dana White has seemingly confirmed that welterweight champion Islam Makhachev will return to the Octagon in August, while the historic UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House continues to take shape.

Makhachev last fought in November, dominating Jack Della Maddalena to win the welterweight title. His manager Ali Abdelaziz initially suggested a July return, but White was quick to correct the timeline.

“Not true… It’s August,” White commented on social media, pointing to UFC 331 as the likely event for Makhachev’s first welterweight title defence.

Meanwhile, the UFC Freedom 250 card for June 14 at the White House South Lawn is filling out with blockbuster matchups. A lightweight championship unification bout between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje will headline, with an interim heavyweight championship fight between Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane serving as co-main event.

The event, celebrating the 250th anniversary of American independence, is expected to cost approximately $60 million. Only 3,000-4,000 live attendees will be present due to security requirements, but White has announced plans for a free 85,000-capacity viewing area at The Ellipse with large screens.

The card will be simulcast on CBS and Paramount+.