Islam Makhachev to Challenge Jack Della Maddalena for UFC Welterweight Title in November

Khabib Nurmagomedov, the esteemed coach and mentor of Islam Makhachev, has shared insights into Makhachev’s potential retirement timeframe, emphasizing that he would advise against extending his career beyond its prime.

Makhachev, celebrated for his remarkable 12-0 winning streak, is highly regarded as a leading lightweight competitor in the UFC. His impressive record includes victories against notable fighters such as Dan Hooker, Alexander Volkanovski, and Charles Oliveira.

Given his accomplishments, fans and experts are speculating about when the Russian fighter might retire.

Khabib Nurmagomedov addressed this topic, suggesting that Islam should not compete past a certain age.

“In my honest opinion, Islam has perhaps one and a half, maybe two years left because he will be 34 in October. Age inevitably takes its toll. I finished when I was 32,” Khabib stated.

Khabib elaborated that individuals should ideally retire before the age of 35, as maintaining peak performance beyond that point becomes challenging, and motivations may shift towards financial gains.

“One shouldn’t fight beyond 35 because after that, you cannot be the same fighter. After your prime, you are fighting only for money. At 35, it’s time for younger fighters to take over. If you continue past 35, someone will likely defeat you. It’s better to retire,” he added.

“You’re never the same after 35. People can say what they want, but after your prime, the motivation becomes primarily financial.”

Makhachev relinquished his lightweight title in May and transitioned to the welterweight division following Belal Muhammad’s loss to Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315.

Islam Makhachev is now scheduled to face Jack Della Maddalena for the UFC welterweight title in November.