Islam Makhachev to Challenge Jack Della Maddalena for UFC Welterweight Title

Islam Makhachev’s coach and mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, recently shared insights into Makhachev’s potential retirement timeframe, emphasizing that he wouldn’t want to see the former lightweight champion extend his career beyond its peak.

Makhachev, celebrated for his exceptional 12-0 winning record, is highly regarded among UFC lightweight competitors, with significant victories against notable fighters such as Dan Hooker, Alexander Volkanovski, and Charles Oliveira.

Consequently, fans and analysts have been speculating about when the Russian athlete might retire.

Nurmagomedov addressed these concerns, suggesting that Makhachev should consider retiring at a certain age. He stated, “In my opinion, Islam has about one and a half to two years left. He turns 34 in October, and athletes inevitably decline with age. I chose to retire at 32 because of personal circumstances.”

Nurmagomedov elaborated that fighters should ideally retire before the age of 35, as their performance inevitably diminishes, and continuing beyond that point is primarily motivated by financial gain.

“After 35, it’s time for younger fighters to take over. If you continue past 35, you risk being defeated. It’s wiser to retire on your own terms,” he added.

“Post-35, an athlete is never quite the same. Once past your prime, the motivation becomes purely financial.”

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

The highly anticipated match between Islam Makhachev and Jack Della Maddalena for the UFC welterweight title is scheduled for November.