It is safe to say that Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev have dominated the UFC over the last decade. While “The Eagle” relied on his devastating combination of Sambo-style wrestling, suffocating chain takedowns, and relentless ground-and-pound, Makhachev has taken that formula to another level.
With a record-setting four lightweight title defenses, the longest winning streak in UFC lightweight history at 17, and a second UFC title at 170lbs, Makhachev has achieved just about everything. However, his dominance has left Uros Medic feeling jealous in a rather unusual way.
Uros Medic Urges Islam Makhachev to Retire From the UFC and Explore a New Career
During a recent appearance on the Believe You Me podcast, the Serbian welterweight admitted that he was getting tired of watching Makhachev rule the division. He said, “I’m going to be honest with you: I’m a little tired of watching Islam Makhachev winning at the top. I’m like, ‘Come on, go rest, go relax. You’re the best, bro.”
Medic believes Makhachev has practically checked every box in MMA and should seriously consider calling it a career. He added, “You’ve proved everything.’ I’m not afraid to say he is the best in the division right now. He is the champion. There’s no doubt about it. But if you’re talking or considering retirement, bro, get out. You’ve already accomplished everything.”
For the uninitiated, Makhachev has already hinted that his next few appearances could be among the final fights of his UFC career. That’s also why he wants to face the absolute best competition available. The Russian is expected to take on the winner of Carlos Prates vs. Michael Morales at UFC 336 for the interim 170lbs title.
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Makhachev was initially expected to defend his undisputed championship in January but pulled out of negotiations while waiting for a more suitable contender. The decision drew criticism from fans and even Dana White, but the champion does not appear particularly bothered by the backlash.
Medic, meanwhile, believes Makhachev has earned the right to walk away and enjoy everything he has accomplished. He once again praised both Makhachev and his former teammate Nurmagomedov for their impact on the sport.
He added, “Go do your thing, bro. Be a businessman, be a politician, he can be anything. He is a smart fellow. So we’re probably going to see him for another year, maybe? Another one or two fights, and that’s amazing.”
Islam Makhachev hints at impending retirement😮 https://t.co/BlKMjG1nHn
— Fighters Only (@FightersOnly) October 31, 2026
Medic concluded, “He has made a statement in this division that will probably be a long time before someone comes around and does what him and Khabib have done. So, very impressive, but life moves on, divisions move on, and I’m interested to see what happens.”
As for Medic, the Serbian is riding a four-fight winning streak and is scheduled to face Kevin Holland at UFC 334 later this month. Makhachev’s next appearance, on the other hand, could come around the middle of 2027, leaving fans with plenty of time to speculate about his future.
Kshitiz Kumar Singh is a UFC Writer at NY Fights with over three years of experience in sports journalism and content creation. Known for his sharp storytelling and passion for combat sports, he has written in-depth features on stars like Brock Lesnar, Randy Couture, and Ilia Topuria. Before joining NY Fights, Kshitiz worked as a UFC Editor at EssentiallySports while currently serving as a WWE Editor at FirstSportz. His admiration for legends like Georges St-Pierre continues to inspire his detailed and engaging MMA coverage. Whether he’s covering the Octagon or the squared circle, Kshitiz is committed to delivering accurate, high-quality content. Outside the world of sports, he’s a dedicated cinephile, often found practicing monologues from his favorite Al Pacino films, combining his love for cinema with storytelling.
