Makhachev Says Next Fight Will Be One Of The Last In Career

Islam Makhachev told followers on X on Friday night that his next contest will be one of the final chapters of his mixed martial arts career. The comment signals a potential end to a run that has left him with 29 wins and a single loss.

The Dagestani fighter, who is ranked as the UFC's top pound-for-pound athlete, wants to face the winner of the upcoming interim welterweight title fight. That bout will feature Carlos Prates and Michael Morales on January 30, 2027, in Toronto, Canada.

Makhachev explained that he wants to prove who is the best in the world. He noted that some critics claim Prates is too dangerous for him while others argue Morales is too skilled. By taking the winner, the champion aims to settle those debates in one match.

The path to that showdown began in August when Makhachev defended his belt in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He defeated Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision in the main event of UFC 330. That victory extended his winning streak to 17 consecutive fights, surpassing the 16-fight record previously held by Anderson Silva.

UFC CEO Dana White clarified the scheduling timeline earlier this month. White said Makhachev was originally set to defend the title against Prates in January. The champion opted instead to wait until after the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which he will observe in February and early March 2027.

White stated that fighters like Makhachev typically compete once a year. He added that holding up a division while waiting for a fighter to return from religious observance is difficult for the promotion. White concluded that the Prates-Morales interim title fight makes logical sense in this context.

In an interview with the Russian outlet pound4padel, Makhachev described the upcoming interim bout as a decision for the true and worthy contender. The champion plans to return to competition in the second quarter of 2027 following his break.