Former UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev from Russia, who will turn 34 in October, responded to questions about when he plans to retire from mixed martial arts.
Islam Makhachev for UDAR
My decision to retire will not depend on my age. As soon as I feel that I'm starting to get weaker and can't keep up with training and sparring partners, then I will start to think about it. If I quit now, what would I do? There isn’t much, really. Whenever I take a break for three or four months, I start feeling hungry for competition. I just want to step into the gym, put on my gloves, and spar with someone. I've been doing this my whole life. Right now, I'm not thinking about retirement!
On November 16 in New York City (USA), Islam Makhachev will headline UFC 322 against welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena.
Makhachev last stepped into the octagon in January 2025 at UFC 311, where he won against Renato Moicano by submission in the first round. His record stands at 27 wins and one loss.
Maddalena fought most recently in May 2025 at UFC 315, where he secured a unanimous decision victory over Belal Muhammad. He holds a record of 18 wins and two losses.
