Makhachev Eyes Quick Return, Says Retirement Not on His Mind at 34

Islam Makhachev, who turns 34, said he is not thinking about retirement and wants to compete as soon as possible. Makhachev successfully defended his title on Saturday, August 15, defeating Ireland's Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision (49-46, 49-46, 48-47) in the main event of UFC 330 in Philadelphia. The victory extended his winning streak to 17 consecutive fights, breaking the previous record of 16 set by UFC Hall of Famer Anderson Silva between 2006 and 2013. The win also made Makhachev the first fighter to defend both the lightweight and welterweight titles in the UFC.

He has spent more than 800 days atop the pound-for-pound rankings. We have to fight before Ramadan, 100 percent. I have to fight, maybe even at the end of this year.

I'm no longer in my 20s. I'm 34 years old, and I have to fight as soon as possible, he said after his victory in Philadelphia. With Ramadan expected to begin on the night of February 7 and end on March 8 next year, Makhachev's return is likely to come between November this year and January 2027.