Lightweight champion Islam Makhachev may not fight again in 2024 after an MRI revealed the fighter is dealing with a partial ligament tear in his hand.

"It is questionable (that I fight in October)," the Dagestani said, according to Championship Rounds. "We haven't talked about the fight yet... I really want to perform before the end of the year. I plan to, too... let's see what happens."

Makhachev doesn't have another 2024 bout officially scheduled. While he still aims to compete, he said he may require surgery if the ailment doesn't recover on its own.

The 32-year-old most recently fought on June 1, retaining the lightweight belt by submitting Dustin Poirier in the fifth round.

Makhachev owns a 26-1 record and has held the 155-pound belt since he submitted Charles Oliveira at UFC 280 in October 2022.