BREAKING NEWS: Javier Mendez SHOCKINGLY REVERSES Statement on Islam Makhachev’s Retirement Plans!
In a stunning twist, Javier Mendez, head coach of the American Kickboxing Academy (AKA), has backtracked on his earlier claim that UFC superstar Islam Makhachev might retire after just three more fights. The initial statement, made on Submission Radio, sent shockwaves through the MMA community, with fans and analysts reeling at the prospect of the pound-for-pound king exiting the sport at age 33. Now, Mendez has clarified his comments, revealing a far more optimistic outlook for Makhachev’s future in the Octagon.
Last week, Mendez suggested that Makhachev, the former UFC lightweight champion with a 27-1 record, might follow in the footsteps of his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov, who retired at 32, and call it quits after a few more bouts, potentially including a welterweight title fight against Jack Della Maddalena. “I’m anticipating we’ll see him for maybe another three fights total,” Mendez had said, citing Makhachev’s financial security and the Dagestani fighters’ tendency to retire early. The comment sparked panic among fans, with Daniel Cormier expressing sadness over the potential loss of a dominant champion, saying, “If Islam says he’s got three fights left, we’ve got to lock in.”
However, Mendez has now reversed course, admitting his earlier prediction was merely an assumption based on his experience with Khabib and the late Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. In a recent interview with Bloody Elbow, Mendez clarified, “People misunderstood me. I said maybe three fights, but I don’t have inside knowledge of Islam’s plans. Realistically, he could have seven or eight fights left, depending on what he wants.” This retraction was echoed by Makhachev’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, who took to X on June 17, 2025, stating, “Islam Makhachev [is not] thinking about retirement — at least three more years of high-level competition.” Makhachev himself fueled excitement, posting, “Everything is just beginning. #doublechamp”
The clarification comes as Makhachev prepares for a blockbuster welterweight title bout against Jack Della Maddalena later in 2025, aiming to become a two-division champion. Fans on X have speculated about potential matchups, including clashes with Kamaru Usman or Ilia Topuria, with one user writing, “JDM, Usman, Topuria at 170 — Islam’s got big plans!” Mendez’s reversal has calmed fears, with Abdelaziz’s assurance of “at least three more years” suggesting Makhachev could continue dominating well into his mid-30s.
While Mendez initially drew parallels to Khabib’s early retirement, he now emphasizes Makhachev’s hunger to cement his legacy. “Islam’s focused on the welterweight title and beyond. He’s not slowing down,” Mendez said. With Makhachev’s 15-fight UFC win streak and four lightweight title defenses already in the books, the MMA world is buzzing with anticipation for what’s next. Will he conquer welterweight, return to lightweight, or face superfight opponents? One thing is clear: Makhachev’s journey is far from over.
