Islam Makhachev’s move up to welterweight might not just be about chasing a second UFC belt — it could mark the beginning of the end for one of MMA’s most dominant champions. According to former opponent Renato Moicano, Makhachev “doesn’t have many fights left” and could retire soon after UFC 322.
The Russian champion will challenge Jack Della Maddalena for the 170-pound title this Saturday at Madison Square Garden in New York. The fight headlines one of the biggest events of the year, as Makhachev looks to become a two-division UFC champion after ruling the lightweight division.
Moicano, who stepped in on short notice to fight Makhachev for the lightweight title at UFC 311, believes that a win over JDM could push Makhachev toward retirement. “Let’s suppose he beats Jack Della Maddalena,” Moicano said. “He’s going to look for someone that’s more favorable and see if the UFC does that. If not, bye. And if he wins one more, also bye. He’s right — can’t stay too much longer.”
The Brazilian fighter drew comparisons to other MMA legends, such as José Aldo and Khabib Nurmagomedov. Moicano mentioned that while Aldo’s return from retirement hurt his legacy, Makhachev has the chance to walk away on top — just like Khabib did.
“Brother, if you have a big legacy, if you’re undefeated, win the belt and walk away,” Moicano said. “Do like Khabib. Take the belt and let people say whatever they want. Go live the rest of your life as an undefeated champion.”
Makhachev has been nearly flawless since his lone career loss to Adriano Martins in 2015, winning 15 straight fights and dominating the lightweight division with victories over top contenders like Charles Oliveira and Alexander Volkanovski. Now, he looks to make history as the fifth fighter in UFC history to hold titles in two weight classes simultaneously.
Moicano believes that if Makhachev does conquer the welterweight division, there would be nothing left to prove. “He’s already got the money, the recognition, and the legacy. If he wins the 170 belt, you better retire, brother,” Moicano said. “It’s an entire life bearing the fruits of the seeds he planted.”
As the MMA world gears up for UFC 322, one question looms large — could this be Islam Makhachev’s last walk to the octagon?
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