Will Islam Makhachev Retire From the UFC Soon? Here’s What His Coach Said originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Islam Makhachev has cemented himself as one of the most dominant forces in UFC history, boasting a 27-1 record and a 15-fight win streak that has him in conversations with legends like Anderson Silva. Trained under his mentor, UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, and coach Javier Mendez, he edges closer to surpassing his mentor’s legacy.
In a recent appearance on Submission Radio, however, American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) head coach Javier Mendez dropped news about UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev’s future, suggesting the Dagestani superstar may only have three fights left before retiring from MMA.
Mendez, who has guided Makhachev through his dominant title reign, cited age and financial security as key factors in the fighter’s potential exit plan.
“Islam is going to be 34, so it isn’t like he’s going to be around much longer, I don’t think.” Mendez revealed. “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.”
The AKA coach elaborated that Makhachev’s decision is rooted in legacy preservation rather than necessity. Unlike many fighters who extend their careers past their primes, the lightweight king is financially stable and prioritizes leaving the sport on his own terms.
Mendez also emphasized his role in helping Makhachev achieve his remaining goals, saying, “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.”
The coach’s comments come amid Makhachev’s preparations for his next fight against current welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena, in an attempt to become a UFC double champion.
According to Mendez, Makhachev’s potential swan song could include a move back to lightweight to face Ilia Topuria, though the focus remains on capturing the welterweight title from Della Maddalena.
“I’m anticipating we’ll see him for, hopefully, maybe another 3 fights total. Let’s see who’s in the works on that,” Mendez said.
For now, Makhachev himself has avoided definitive statements, telling Demetrious Johnson on his podcast a few months ago that he’ll retire only when he can no longer compete against younger fighters.
Whether Makhachev exits after three fights or extends his reign, his next moves will shape not just his career but the future of two UFC divisions. With retirement possibly on the horizon, each fight will mean even more for his dominant legacy.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 16, 2025, where it first appeared.
