Khabib Nurmagomedov has always been a man who practices what he preaches. Back in 2020, “The Eagle” stood at the very peak of mixed martial arts — ranked No. 1 pound-for-pound in the world, holding multiple UFC Lightweight title defenses, and dominating every opponent who dared to step into the Octagon with him. After a masterful second-round triangle choke submission victory over Justin Gaethje at UFC 254, Khabib shocked the world by announcing his retirement at just 32 years old. Many believed he could have continued to rule the division for years, but Khabib’s decision was rooted in something deeper: his late father’s advice to leave the sport before time could tarnish his legacy.
By retiring on his own terms, Khabib secured one of the rare graceful exits in MMA history. He walked away with an undefeated record of 29-0, his health intact, and his reputation untouched. While he no longer competes, Khabib has remained a constant presence in the sport, channeling his competitive drive into coaching and mentoring fighters from his state-of-the-art gym in Dagestan, Russia. One of his greatest projects is his lifelong friend and training partner Islam Makhachev, the man who rose to claim the UFC Lightweight crown and solidify himself as one of the most dominant champions in the promotion.
Makhachev’s Reign and Move to Welterweight
Islam Makhachev, long hailed as Khabib’s successor, has followed in his mentor’s footsteps with remarkable precision. After claiming the UFC Lightweight Championship, Makhachev defended it four times in dominant fashion, showcasing a combination of elite wrestling, suffocating top control, and increasingly dangerous striking. His reign at 155 pounds mirrored Khabib’s dominance — calculated, disciplined, and seemingly unbeatable.
But after UFC 311, Makhachev made a career-defining decision: to vacate his lightweight throne and chase new challenges at welterweight. His first target? Australia’s own Jack Della Maddalena, a fast-rising contender with a reputation for ruthless striking. For Makhachev, this move isn’t just about chasing a second title — it’s about cementing his place in MMA history as one of the few fighters to conquer multiple divisions.
However, as ambitious as the move sounds, Khabib sees the bigger picture. Makhachev, who will turn 34 in October, is entering the final stretch of his career. And just like Khabib before him, retirement is already part of the plan.
The Retirement Timeline
In a recent interview with Ushatayka (via MMA Junkie), Khabib laid out a very specific vision for Makhachev’s future.
“Islam maybe, my honest opinion, one and a half, two years because (his) age in October is going to be 34,” Khabib explained. “Nobody is going to be the same. When time comes, they don’t ask what’s your name. When you become 35, you need to stop doing this because leave this sport for young guys. When you become 35 and you don’t finish, somebody is going to finish you. Why? It’s better to finish. After 35, you’re never going to be the same.”
These words carry the weight of experience. Khabib has seen countless fighters stay in the game too long, chasing paychecks or glory only to suffer devastating defeats that overshadow their primes. He believes in leaving on top, and he’s determined to guide Makhachev toward the same fate. According to his estimate, Makhachev has 18 to 24 months left in the sport — a window that may only allow for four more fights.
The Ideal Final Four Fights
If Makhachev truly follows Khabib’s retirement plan, his remaining career will be defined by a carefully curated set of matchups that maximize both legacy and entertainment.
Jack Della Maddalena for the UFC Welterweight Title
The immediate goal is clear: defeat Della Maddalena and claim the welterweight championship. This would instantly elevate Makhachev into rare company as a two-division UFC champion, a feat achieved by legends like Georges St-Pierre, Conor McGregor, and Daniel Cormier.Ili’s Top Fight
A clash with Ilia Topuria, the current UFC Featherweight champion, would be a massive crossover bout between two elite, undefeated champions in their primes. It’s a stylistic and marketing dream — Topuria’s crisp boxing and Makhachev’s grappling mastery would make for a fascinating fight.Welterweight Title Defense Against the Top Contender
Assuming victory over Della Maddalena, a defense against the top-ranked welterweight at the time would solidify Makhachev’s legitimacy in the division. Whether it’s a powerhouse wrestler like Shavkat Rakhmonov or a veteran striker like Leon Edwards, the fight would serve as a true test.Arman Tsarukyan Rematch
For his final bout, a rematch with Arman Tsarukyan could be poetic. Tsarukyan pushed Makhachev harder than most in their first meeting, and both fighters have improved drastically since. Ending his career with a decisive victory over one of the division’s brightest stars could be the perfect farewell.
Why Retiring Early Matters
Combat sports are littered with cautionary tales of fighters who stayed too long. Anderson Silva, B.J. Penn, and Tony Ferguson all experienced brutal declines after their primes, damaging both their records and their health. Khabib’s philosophy is rooted in self-preservation — both physical and legacy-wise. He believes fighters should aim to leave the sport before it leaves them, and Makhachev is positioned perfectly to do just that.
If Makhachev retires by 35, he will likely walk away with multiple world titles, an elite win streak, and minimal damage. His legacy would be untarnished, his body preserved, and his name spoken alongside the all-time greats.
Appreciating the Present
The thought of Makhachev retiring in just a couple of years may be bittersweet for fans. The Russian champion is one of the rare fighters who can dominate opponents yet still finish fights with highlight-reel submissions or knockouts. His mix of technical brilliance, composure under pressure, and relentless determination makes him one of MMA’s most complete athletes.
The truth is, these next four fights — if that’s all we get — will be must-watch events. They will define Makhachev’s place in MMA history and give fans a chance to witness a champion at the height of his powers.
Whether it’s conquering new divisions, taking on dangerous contenders, or closing the chapter against familiar rivals, Makhachev’s final act promises to be one of the most intriguing storylines in combat sports over the next two years.
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s blueprint for his friend is simple: win, dominate, and walk away before the inevitable decline sets in. If Makhachev follows it to the letter, he could secure an exit as graceful — and perhaps even more decorated — than Khabib’s own. And in a sport where so few get to leave on their own terms, that might be the most important victory of all.
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