Uros Medic Suggests Islam Makhachev Consider Retirement After UFC Success

Uros Medic believes that Islam Makhachev has done everything possible in the UFC and should think about stepping away after years at the top.

The dominance of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev in the UFC over the last decade is clear. While Khabib's strength came from his Sambo wrestling, relentless takedowns, and ground-and-pound style, Makhachev has elevated that approach even further.

Makhachev holds a record with four lightweight title defenses, the longest winning streak in UFC lightweight history at 17 wins, and also claimed a second UFC championship at 170 pounds. He's achieved nearly everything one could in the sport. This success, oddly enough, has led Medic to feel a bit envious.

Medic Encourages Makhachev to Move On From Fighting

On a recent episode of the Believe You Me podcast, Serbian welterweight Uros Medic expressed his weariness with seeing Makhachev dominate. He said,

"I'm going to be honest: 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 feels Makhachev has checked all the boxes in MMA and should seriously think about retiring. 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."

Makhachev has hinted that his next few fights might be among his last in the UFC. That’s why he wants to face the toughest opponents available. He is expected to fight the winner of Carlos Prates vs. Michael Morales at UFC 336 for the interim 170-pound belt.

Criticism and Respect

Originally, Makhachev was supposed to defend his undisputed title in January but withdrew from talks seeking a more fitting challenger. Fans and UFC President Dana White criticized this move, though Makhachev seems unfazed by the backlash.

Medic believes Makhachev deserves the chance to step away and enjoy his career accomplishments. He praised both Makhachev and his former teammate Nurmagomedov for their influence on MMA, saying,

"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."

Medic added,

"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."

Looking Ahead

Uros Medic himself is currently on a four-fight winning streak and is set to face Kevin Holland at UFC 334 later this month. Meanwhile, Islam Makhachev may not return to the octagon until mid-2027, giving fans time to wonder about his future plans.