UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev has hinted that his fighting career is nearing its end. The reigning champion announced his intention to face the toughest available competition during his remaining time in the sport.
Future Plans and Career Timeline
Makhachev shared an update on social media regarding his career trajectory, indicating that his upcoming bouts will be among his last. Addressing critics who claim certain contenders pose too great a threat, he expressed his desire to face the top challengers and prove his status as the best fighter in the world.
The champion recently turned 35 years old. Previously, teammate Khabib Nurmagomedov suggested that Makhachev might only have a couple of prime years remaining in his athletic career. Nurmagomedov himself retired from competition at the age of 32 following a victory over Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 in October 2020.
This shift in tone contrasts with Makhachev’s earlier statements about aiming for a 20-fight winning streak and keeping retirement off his immediate schedule.
Recent Developments and Championship Resume
The champion recently stepped away from negotiations for a proposed title defense against Carlos Prates at UFC 336 on January 30. Makhachev argued that the welterweight division features too many deserving contenders and suggested that Prates and Michael Morales should determine the top contender inside the Octagon. Following his decision, UFC booked Prates and Morales to fight for the interim welterweight championship in Toronto.
Makhachev most recently defended his welterweight title with a unanimous decision victory over Ian Garry at UFC 330 in August, extending his promotional winning streak to 17 fights and setting a new record.
Before moving up in weight, Makhachev dominated the lightweight division, setting a record with four successful title defenses against fighters such as Alexander Volkanovski, Dustin Poirier, and Renato Moicano. He subsequently vacated the 155-pound belt to pursue a second division title, capturing the welterweight championship in November 2025 by defeating Jack Della Maddalena via a five-round decision at UFC 322.
Makhachev currently holds the No. 1 position in the UFC pound-for-pound rankings, remains undefeated since 2015, and stands as one of only 11 fighters to achieve double-champion status in the promotion.
