Islam Makhachev has established himself as a dominant UFC lightweight champion with a 27-1 record and a 15-fight winning streak, putting him among the sport’s all-time greats alongside names like Anderson Silva. Under the guidance of mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov and coach Javier Mendez, Makhachev is on the verge of carving out a legacy that could surpass his mentor’s achievements. Recently, his coach hinted that the Dagestani fighter may be approaching retirement after just a few more bouts, raising questions about Islam Makhachev UFC retirement plans and legacy.
During an appearance on Submission Radio, Javier Mendez, head coach at American Kickboxing Academy, revealed that Makhachev might only have three fights left before stepping away from MMA. Age and financial security were cited as important factors influencing this timeline.
Islam is going to be 34, so it isn’t like he’s going to be around much longer, I don’t think.
—Javier Mendez, Head Coach
Based on how the Dagestani guys get their mentality on team Khabib, and Islam having enough money to do what he wants to do the rest of his life… let’s see.
—Javier Mendez, Head Coach
Makhachev’s Retirement Strategy Focuses on Legacy Over Longevity
Mendez explained that Makhachev’s potential retirement isn’t driven by necessity but by a desire to protect his legacy. Unlike many fighters who continue competing past their prime, Makhachev benefits from solid financial stability and aims to exit the sport on his terms rather than risking decline.
The coach emphasized his commitment to helping Islam achieve historic status, including a possible move to welterweight and capturing another UFC title.
The challenge for me is being able to get a legacy going for him, and getting the welterweight title is a hell of a legacy to have.
—Javier Mendez, Head Coach
Upcoming Fights Could Define Makhachev’s Final Chapter in the UFC
Makhachev is currently preparing for a major showdown against welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena, which could make him the UFC’s next double champion. According to Mendez, after this bout, Makhachev might return to lightweight to face Ilia Topuria, keeping options open for the final fights of his career.
I’m anticipating we’ll see him for, hopefully, maybe another 3 fights total. Let’s see who’s in the works on that,
—Javier Mendez, Head Coach
Islam himself has remained cautious about committing to a definite retirement timeline. In a discussion with Demetrious Johnson, he stated his intention to retire only when he can no longer outperform younger competitors.
Legacy and Future Impact of Islam Makhachev’s Career
Whether Makhachev retires after just three more fights or extends his dominance further, his upcoming matches will carry great weight for both his career and the divisions involved. As he pursues the welterweight title and potentially returns to lightweight rivalry against Topuria, each fight could bolster his legacy as one of the UFC’s all-time greats. The prospect of Islam Makhachev UFC retirement plans and legacy adds an intense level of anticipation to his next appearances, marking a crucial period that could define the end of an era in MMA.