UFC superstar Islam Makhachev has dropped a major hint about his retirement plans, revealing that his next fight could be among the final appearances of his professional mixed martial arts career. The reigning UFC welterweight champion made the announcement through social media, leaving fans wondering how much longer they will get to watch one of the sport’s most dominant fighters inside the Octagon.
The 35-year-old Russian fighter is currently waiting to discover his next opponent, with Carlos Prates and Michael Morales scheduled to compete for the interim UFC welterweight championship at UFC 336 on January 30, 2027, in Toronto.
Makhachev has made it clear that he wants to face whoever emerges victorious from that contest. However, his latest comments have added another major storyline to the welterweight division, as the champion appears to be approaching the final chapter of his fighting career.
Islam Makhachev makes major retirement revelation
Makhachev shared his thoughts about his future on October 30, addressing the growing discussion surrounding his next title defence and the upcoming interim championship contest.
In his social media post, the UFC champion suggested that his remaining time in professional MMA could be limited.
“My next fight is one of the last in my career,” Makhachev wrote.
He also addressed the opinions surrounding his potential opponents, with some suggesting that Carlos Prates presents a dangerous challenge while Michael Morales could be an equally difficult matchup.
“They say Prates is too dangerous for me and Morales is too good for me. So I want to face the best of them and prove to the world once again who is the best in the world,” he added.
His statement quickly attracted attention across the MMA community. While Makhachev did not officially announce a retirement date or confirm that his next appearance would be his final UFC fight, his comments strongly indicate that he is thinking about the closing stages of his career.
The distinction is important: the champion said his next fight would be one of his last, not necessarily his final appearance.
Carlos Prates vs Michael Morales to decide Makhachev’s next opponent
The UFC welterweight division is heading towards an important showdown at UFC 336, where Carlos Prates and Michael Morales will compete for the interim championship.
The fight was arranged after Makhachev decided against competing at the January event. The Russian champion reportedly wanted to return after Ramadan, which takes place in February and early March in 2027.
Prates had previously been discussed as a potential opponent for Makhachev. However, the UFC eventually moved forward with an interim title contest involving Morales.
The winner is expected to face Makhachev in a championship unification fight, although the date and venue for that potential contest have not been officially confirmed.
For Makhachev, the upcoming matchup provides an opportunity to settle the debate over the division’s leading contender. Rather than selecting one opponent, he wants both fighters to compete for the interim championship before he returns to defend his undisputed title.
Morales brings an unbeaten professional record and considerable athletic ability, while Prates has established himself as one of the division’s most dangerous knockout artists.
A showdown against either fighter would represent a significant challenge for the reigning champion.
Dana White reacts to Makhachev’s delayed UFC return
Makhachev’s decision to postpone his title defence has also attracted attention from UFC president and CEO Dana White.
The promotion initially expected the champion to compete at UFC 336 in January. However, after Makhachev indicated that he preferred to fight after Ramadan, the UFC decided to introduce an interim championship contest rather than keep the division waiting.
White expressed frustration with the situation, pointing out that the welterweight division needs to remain active and that contenders should not be forced to wait indefinitely for a title opportunity.
The decision to book Prates against Morales has created an interesting situation. Both fighters now have an opportunity to win championship gold, while Makhachev will have to face the winner if he wants to unify the titles.
His latest retirement comments have added further significance to that potential contest. If his next appearance is indeed one of his final fights, Makhachev will have an opportunity to make another major statement against an elite opponent.
Islam Makhachev’s incredible UFC record and legacy
Makhachev has established himself as one of the most successful fighters of his generation. A product of Dagestan’s wrestling-based fighting system and a close teammate of former UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, he has built his reputation through exceptional grappling, submission skills and increasingly effective striking.
He currently holds a professional MMA record of 29 wins and one defeat.
His victory over Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 in August 2026 was particularly significant. The win extended his UFC winning streak to 17 consecutive fights, setting a new promotional record.
Before moving to welterweight, Makhachev dominated the lightweight division, where he successfully defended his championship four consecutive times. He eventually moved up to 170 pounds and captured the welterweight title, establishing himself as a two-division UFC champion.
His achievements have placed him firmly in conversations about the greatest fighters in UFC history.
At 35, Makhachev is also approaching the stage of his career when experience, physical condition and long-term ambitions become increasingly important considerations. His latest comments suggest that he wants to make his remaining appearances count rather than continue fighting indefinitely.
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