UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has described his upcoming bout as "one of the last" fights of his career, signaling a potential retirement timeline for the dominant Russian fighter.
The comment comes ahead of a welterweight championship showdown at UFC 322, scheduled for November 15, 2025, at Madison Square Garden in New York. Makhachev is set to face Australian contender Jack Della Maddalena in what would be a move up in weight class for the Dagestani star.
Photographs from the event show Makhachev wearing blue gloves and Della Maddalena in red gloves during their title clash at the iconic Manhattan venue. The bout represents a significant test for Makhachev as he ventures beyond his natural lightweight division to challenge for welterweight gold.
Makhachev's remark about the fight being "one of the last" adds intrigue to his future plans, with the 33-year-old having established himself as one of the sport's pound-for-pound best during a lengthy unbeaten streak.
