Makhachev Plans Three More Fights Before UFC Retirement

Islam Makhachev says he has at least three fights left before he retires from the UFC, and he wants Carlos Prates next.

Makhachev revealed the number at a press conference in Russia, days after defending his welterweight title against Ian Garry at UFC 330. The win pushed his winning streak to 17 in a row, breaking Anderson Silva's UFC record, and Makhachev now wants to push that streak to 20 before he walks away.

What Makhachev Said About His Remaining Career

Makhachev made clear he isn't setting a hard retirement date, just a rough fight count tied to how deep the welterweight division runs right now. "What I know is there are very good title contenders in my division. So, I think I have at least three more very hard and exciting fights waiting for me." He also weighed his own legacy against Jon Jones, who holds the UFC record for most title fight wins with 16 to Makhachev's seven. Makhachev pointed out the gap isn't really about talent so much as timing, noting he had ten fights before his first title shot while Jones fought for a title in his third or fourth UFC bout.

Why Carlos Prates Is Next

Makhachev has set his sights on Carlos Prates for his next welterweight title defense, and he wants to fight again before next Ramadan, which points to an active 2026 for the champion rather than a fighter coasting toward retirement. Prates enters that conversation off a run of finishes that has made him one of the most dangerous strikers in the 170-pound division, the kind of live puncher who fits the "hard and exciting" description Makhachev used for the fights he still has left.

Betting Angle

Makhachev has been a heavy betting favorite in every welterweight title defense since moving up from lightweight, and a Prates matchup would likely follow that pattern given the champion's wrestling and grappling control against a striker who has to close distance to do damage. The number worth watching for bettors isn't just the moneyline but the method and round props, since Prates' knockout power gives him live underdog value in early-fight scenarios even if Makhachev remains the on-paper favorite once the line opens.

Whether Makhachev actually gets to 20 straight wins depends on how the welterweight contenders stack up over his final stretch, but for now the champion has given fans a real number to track: three fights, one more shot at history, and Carlos Prates standing as the next test.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many fights does Islam Makhachev have left before retirement?

Islam Makhachev says he has at least three more fights left in his UFC career before he plans to retire.

Who is Islam Makhachev fighting next?

Islam Makhachev has set his sights on Carlos Prates for his next UFC welterweight title defense.

What record did Islam Makhachev break at UFC 330?

Islam Makhachev broke Anderson Silva's UFC record for longest winning streak by beating Ian Garry at UFC 330, extending his run to 17 straight wins.