Makhachev Rejects Khabib's Early Retirement Path

Islam Makhachev has no plans to follow Khabib Nurmagomedov into early retirement.

The reigning UFC welterweight champion told the promotion he intends to break Anderson Silva's consecutive win record and keep fighting well beyond the age his mentor stepped away. Nurmagomedov walked away undefeated at 32 after fulfilling a promise to his mother following his father's death, but Makhachev said his ambitions extend far past matching that legacy.

Makhachev Chasing Silva Record at UFC 330

"I am the best fighter in the world, but I want to be the best fighter to ever do this," Makhachev said during a UFC 330 promotional video broadcast during UFC Belgrade, per Sherdog. "I have to beat Garry to beat Anderson Silva's record. And it's not going to be just 17 [wins in a row], it's going to be many more."

Makhachev defends his 170-pound strap against Ian Garry on Aug. 15 in Philadelphia. A win would push him past Silva's 16-fight Octagon streak and give him 17 consecutive victories inside the cage.

The Dagestani already surpassed Nurmagomedov's lightweight accomplishments before claiming welterweight gold. Khabib previously suggested Makhachev had only a handful of bouts remaining, but the champion's latest remarks signal a longer run ahead.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Islam Makhachev rejects Khabib Retirement path, eyes more UFC wins