Makhachev Responds to Coach’s Retirement Claims

UFC star Islam Makhachev has addressed his coach Javier Mendez’s statements regarding his potential retirement, asserting that Mendez ‘is entitled to his perspective.’

Makhachev stands as a prominent figure in UFC history. He recently relinquished his lightweight title to compete in the welterweight division, with his sights set on a bout against the newly crowned champion, Jack Della Maddalena. While the matchup is highly anticipated, the official date and location remain unconfirmed.

In a recent discussion, Mendez speculated that Makhachev’s active fighting career might be limited to approximately three more fights. “I’m anticipating we’ll see Islam hopefully for maybe another three fights total. Let’s see who’s in the works on that, if we get by JDM,” Mendez commented.

However, Makhachev countered these predictions, emphasizing that Mendes’ views are his own. “Javier has his opinion, Ali has his opinion – I have my opinion,” Makhachev stated.

“We’re just beginning. This is a new book. We’re just beginning.”

“We will see when I’m going to fight. Madison Square Garden or Las Vegas or Abu Dhabi, because still we don’t have the day. If not Madison Square Garden, I want to fight in Abu Dhabi. I don’t want to wait.”

Makhachev, celebrated for his impressive 12-0 winning streak, also received a challenge from Ilia Topuria, the newly crowned lightweight champion.

However, after Makhachev’s close friend Belal Muhammad lost the welterweight title to Maddalena this past May, Makhachev decided to try for 170, and UFC announced Topuria vs. Oliveira.