UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, a 35-year-old Russian powerhouse, just confirmed his next fight will be “one of the last” of his illustrious career, sending shockwaves through the fight world. This isn’t just a casual announcement, it’s a full-on retirement bombshell from a guy widely regarded as one of the best to ever step into the Octagon, and it’s about to change everything for the welterweight division.
Makhachev’s Dominance Is Insane, And He’s Still Breaking Records
Let’s be real, Makhachev has been absolutely unstoppable. Just this past August, he defended his welterweight title by beating Ian Machado Garry. That wasn’t just another win, it was his 17th straight victory in the UFC, a ridiculous streak that broke Anderson Silva’s 13-year record for the longest win streak in promotion history. Think about that for a second: *17 straight wins*. He’s not just a welterweight champ, he’s also a former lightweight world champion. UFC President Dana White himself said in August that Makhachev is “on the right path” to being considered the greatest fighter in UFC history. With 29 wins in 30 fights, that path is looking more like a superhighway to legendary status.
The Interim Belt Just Became A Kingmaker
So what’s next for Makhachev before he hangs up the gloves? He wants to face the winner of Brazil’s Carlos Prates and Ecuador’s Michael Morales. These two are set to fight for the interim welterweight belt at UFC 336 on January 30. Makhachev’s goal is crystal clear: he wants to prove “the best in the world” once again. Originally, White had Makhachev scheduled to defend his belt against Prates in January, but Makhachev opted to delay fighting until after Ramadan in March. This move led White to create the interim bout, openly stating he thought Makhachev was “holding up the division.” Makhachev, for his part, later agreed that this interim fight will determine “the true worthy contender.” We’re talking about some serious talent here, with Prates, 33, racking up his last three wins by knockout, and Morales, 27, boasting an undefeated 19-0 professional record.
The stakes could not be higher. Makhachev is looking to cement his legacy against the baddest dude standing before he walks away. Whoever comes out of that Prates-Morales interim fight on January 30 isn’t just fighting for a belt, they’re fighting for a date with a living legend in one of his last-ever appearances. You gotta tune in, because this is going to be epic.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
Leave a Reply