Makhachev has hinted that the end of his MMA career may be approaching, declaring that his next fight will be among the final appearances of his career as he targets a showdown with either Carlos Prates or Michael Morales.
The reigning UFC welterweight champion made the comment on social media Friday, October 30, amid growing discussion about his next title defence. “My next fight is one of the last in my career”. Makhachev also addressed claims that Prates and Morales present difficult matchups for him, making it clear that he wants to face whichever fighter emerges from their upcoming interim title bout.
“They say Prates is too dangerous for me and Morales is too good for me. So I want to face the best of them and prove to the world once again who is the best in world”.
Makhachev’s next opponent is expected to be determined by the interim welterweight title fight between Carlos Prates and Michael Morales at UFC 336 on January 30, 2027, in Toronto.
Prates had been discussed as a potential opponent for Makhachev, but the champion is not expected to return until after Ramadan, which ends in early March.
UFC CEO Dana White said Makhachev had initially been scheduled to defend his title in January before the promotion moved forward with the interim championship bout. The decision has generated criticism and debate over the welterweight division’s direction.
Makhachev, however, has maintained that he wants to face the winner and prove himself against the division’s leading contender.
At 35, Makhachev has already established himself among the most accomplished fighters in UFC history.
He became a two-division champion after winning the lightweight title and later capturing the welterweight championship. His August victory over Ian Machado Garry extended his UFC winning streak to 17 fights, setting a new promotional record.
A victory over the winner of Prates and Morales would give Makhachev another opportunity to strengthen his legacy, while potentially bringing him closer to the end of his career.
Despite the headline-making statement, Makhachev has not announced a specific retirement date or said that his next fight will be his final appearance.
His wording suggests that he is considering the closing stages of his career, but it does not rule out competing beyond his next bout.
For now, the champion’s focus appears to remain on facing the best available opponent and adding another major victory before he eventually steps away from the sport.
