Makhachev Rejects Retirement Talk Ahead Of UFC 330

Islam Makhachev has no plans to walk away after UFC 330.

The welterweight champion shot down speculation that he would retire following his title defense against Ian Machado Garry, telling MMA Junkie he intends to keep fighting for years. "It's like somebody put the fake news I'm going to retire after this fight," Makhachev said. "No, it's not true, man. I want to keep going."

Makhachev Chasing Jones' Title Defense Record

A win over Garry on Aug. 10 would push Makhachev past Anderson Silva's UFC record of 16 straight victories, but the Dagestani fighter is targeting a longer run. He mentioned wanting 20 consecutive wins to ensure nobody breaks the mark, and said he is focused on matching Jon Jones and Demetrious Johnson's 11 title defenses. Makhachev already holds the lightweight title defense record with four, then moved up to welterweight. His mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov retired after just three defenses, fueling the retirement rumors.

Makhachev also confirmed Saudi boxing promoter Turki Alalshikh has approached him about a ring debut. "He said, 'When you will be ready for boxing, just let me know and we will do something,'" Makhachev recalled. "I just tell him, 'Hey, you sit with Dana, just ask him. I'm ready like anytime.'"

UFC 330 takes place Aug. 10 with Makhachev defending the welterweight strap in the main event.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Islam Makhachev denies retirement rumors leading into UFC 330: ‘We’re staying here for more years’