Phoenix 24
Khabib Nurmagomedov believes age eventually catches every fighter, while the UFC champion insists that motivation and physical condition matter more than a number.
Makhachkala, Russia, August 14, 2026.— Islam Makhachev’s future has become a growing subject of debate as the UFC welterweight champion approaches his 35th birthday and continues competing at the highest level of mixed martial arts.
The discussion was fueled by Khabib Nurmagomedov, Makhachev’s longtime friend, mentor and cornerman. The former undefeated champion has argued that fighters should consider leaving the sport around the age of 35, before physical decline exposes them to unnecessary punishment.
Nurmagomedov retired at 32 with a perfect 29-0 record. His decision was influenced by a promise to his mother following the death of his father and coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, but it also reflected his belief that an athlete should walk away before performance begins to deteriorate.
Makhachev has adopted a less rigid position. Although he recognizes the risks of remaining in combat sports for too long, he believes age alone should not determine retirement. Motivation, health, competitive performance and the ability to complete demanding training camps are also essential factors.
The Russian fighter remains one of the UFC’s most dominant competitors. After ruling the lightweight division, he moved up to welterweight and defeated Jack Della Maddalena to capture a championship in a second weight class.
That victory improved his professional record to 28 wins and one defeat while extending his UFC winning streak to 16, level with the historic mark established by Anderson Silva. His next appearance could therefore add another significant record to his career.
Makhachev has also acknowledged that his mother regularly asks him to stop fighting because of the risks involved. He understands her concerns but maintains that he still has goals to accomplish before considering retirement.
The situation presents a familiar dilemma in combat sports: determining when ambition should give way to preservation. For Makhachev, that decision will depend less on his birth certificate than on whether his body, competitive desire and performances continue to justify another fight.
Some stories begin long before they are told.