Makhachev (27-1 MMA, 16-1 UFC), who has defended his lightweight title a division-record four times, said he won’t retire before chasing his goal of becoming UFC dual-champion. But Muhammad can see a scenario where he notches a couple of title defenses, then move up to middleweight for his own opportunity at winning a second title.

UFC CEO Dana White announced two title fights for the promotion's return to Montreal on May 10. UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad vs. Jack Della Maddalena and women's flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko vs.