Islam Makhachev Considers Retirement at Khabib’s Request Ahead of UFC 322

New York, NY — Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC lightweight champion, stated he would retire from mixed martial arts if his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov asked him to. Makhachev, who boasts four successful title defenses, prepares to move up to welterweight for a championship fight against Jack Della Maddelena at UFC 322 this Saturday.

The shift in weight class aligns with a vision initially laid out by Khabib’s late father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, who envisioned Makhachev succeeding Khabib. The two fighters share a close bond, training together throughout Khabib’s dominant run in the lightweight division. Khabib transitioned to a coaching role following his retirement, taking a mentorship position for Makhachev.

“Khabib is like my older brother,” Makhachev said. “If he told me to stop fighting, I would listen. He takes care of us and knows how to create champions.” Makhachev expressed deep respect for Khabib’s judgment in his career.

Should Makhachev win against Della Maddelena, he would become only the 11th two-division champion in UFC history at the age of 34. Makhachev acknowledged that retirement might loom in his future, though he emphasized his eagerness to continue fighting unless Khabib directs otherwise.

Regarding potential challenges in the welterweight division, Makhachev ruled out a move to middleweight, explaining, “185, I’m going to be fat. It’s not going to be my weight.” Looking ahead to 2026, he expressed a desire to headline fights at Madison Square Garden and the White House, referencing the historical significance of such venues.

Makhachev is open to battling anyone once he secures the welterweight title, including previous lightweight champion Ilia Topuria, despite uncertainty about a return to 155 pounds. “Let’s see after the fight how I’m going to feel,” he said. “If I take the belt at 170, I will be ready for anything.”