Islam Makhachev has admitted that his mother could have the final say on when he brings his MMA career to an end.
Islam Makhachev revealed that he is prepared to respect his mother’s wishes if she asks him to retire. The UFC welterweight champion makes the admission during an interview with Red Corner MMA at the Sambo World Championship event in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Makhachev explains that his mother has never supported his decision to compete in mixed martial arts and suggests that her opinion could soon determine his future in the sport. “My mother has always been against me fighting,” Makhachev told Red Corner MMA at the Sambo World Championship event in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. “I’ve always listened to my mother, so soon I will obey her word.”
The 35-year-old’s comments add another layer to recent discussions about his retirement, particularly after he admits that he is approaching the final stage of his career. When asked how many fights he believes he has left, Makhachev makes it clear that he has no specific number in mind.
“There’s no number,” Makhachev said. “I am just reaching the finish line. There aren’t many things that could give me motivation in this sport. I’m at the finish line. I just want to fight the contenders, but I don’t see any new names.” Despite his comments, Makhachev does not announce an immediate retirement decision. Instead, he indicates that he still wants to face the leading contenders before eventually walking away.
Makhachev’s comments naturally bring comparisons with his close friend, former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. Nurmagomedov famously retires in October 2020 after defeating Justin Gaethje at UFC 254, bringing his undefeated professional record to 29-0. Following the victory, Khabib explains that he makes a promise to his mother after the death of his father and longtime coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. He decides not to continue fighting without his father by his side.
Makhachev now appears to be facing a similar family consideration, although he has not confirmed that he is ready to follow the same path. The two fighters share a close relationship, with Khabib serving as a mentor throughout Makhachev’s career. Their connection also extends to their achievements inside the Octagon, with Makhachev building on the legacy of his longtime teammate.
While retirement remains a possibility, Makhachev still has business to take care of in the welterweight division. The Russian holds a professional record of 29-1 and is riding a 17-fight winning streak. He most recently defends his welterweight championship against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 in August 2026, securing his first successful defence of the title. His next challenger is expected to emerge from the interim welterweight title fight between Carlos Prates and Michael Morales at UFC 336 in January. Makhachev believes both fighters deserve an opportunity to challenge for the championship and wants to see who proves himself in their upcoming contest.
“It’s a good fight and I think both of them deserve a title shot,” Makhachev said. “That’s why I would like to see which of them is more deserving. We’ll find out in January.” They are both good,” he added. “They are both punchers. Although, I wouldn’t say either of them is a threat for me. I am a bad matchup for them stylistically.”
For now, Makhachev remains focused on defending his title and facing the division’s leading names. However, with his latest comments suggesting that his mother could influence his decision to retire, the champion’s future may depend on more than what happens inside the Octagon.
