Islam Makhachev Reveals Retirement Plans

Islam Makhachev (29-1) expects to compete in “at least three more” UFC fights before calling time on his mixed martial arts career.

The 34-year-old is a two-division champion with wins over Arman Tsarukyan, Charles Oliveira, Alexander Volkanovski, Dustin Poirier and Jack Della Maddalena, among others.

Makhachev is already a history-making athlete. He is the 11th multi-division champion in UFC history, holds the records for the most title-fight wins and title defenses in UFC lightweight history, and owns the longest winning streak in UFC history at 17.

“I don’t know what other records there will be for me to chase,” Makhachev said.

Despite already reaching several milestones, Makhachev believes there are still difficult challenges ahead at welterweight.

“In my division there are some very strong title contenders. Looking ahead, I think there will be at least three more exciting and very difficult fights in front of me.”

Makhachev most recently defeated Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision at UFC 330, successfully defending his welterweight title and extending his UFC-record winning streak to 17.

Carlos Prates is among the leading candidates for Makhachev’s next defense. Makhachev has previously said Prates may be the most deserving contender, while Prates claims the UFC has told him he will receive the next title shot.

Prates has called for the fight to take place on November 14 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, although the matchup has yet to be officially announced.