Islam Makhachev rejects Khabib Retirement path, eyes more UFC wins

IslamMakhachev has no intention of following KhabibNurmagomedov's footsteps and retiring early.Nurmagomedov retired at the age of 32 as the undefeated andundisputed Ultimate Fighting Championship lightweight champion. Makhachevthen surpassed his mentor's accomplishments at 155 pounds beforeclaiming gold at 170 pounds. The reigning welterweight king has nointentions of stopping anytime soon.

Islam Makhachev discusses UFC 330 title defense, Anderson Silvarecord chase and future goals

Makhachev is set to defend his welterweight title for the firsttime when he meets Ian Garry inthe UFC330 headliner on Aug. 15 in Philadelphia. Ahead of his firsttitle defense at 170 pounds, the Dagestani made it clear that earlyretirement isn't part of his plans. While a victory over Garry willsee Makhachev break the Octagon record for most consecutive wins,he's looking to extend the record and further cement hislegacy."I am the best fighter in the world, but I want to be the bestfighter to ever do this," Makhachev said during a UFC 330promotional video broadcast during UFC Belgrade. "I have to beat Garry to beat AndersonSilva's record. And it's not going to be just 17 [wins in arow], it's going to be many more. I am the best fighter in theworld. I'm going to show it in Philadelphia."Following a promise made to his mother, Nurmagomedov retired monthsafter the death of his father and coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov."The Eagle" has since weighed in on Makhachev's future, previouslyrevealing that the latter only has a few more fights left, but thereigning welterweight champ's latest comments suggest otherwise.