Javier Mendez, head coach of Islam Makhachev, expressed concerns about the fighter's future in mixed martial arts, suggesting he may only have a couple of fights left. Makhachev recently vacated his lightweight title to move up to welterweight, where he’s set to face Jack Della Maddalena for a title shot. Despite Makhachev's impressive unbeaten streak of 15 fights, Mendez noted that Dagestani fighters often retire early. Makhachev, currently 33, may consider stepping away when he feels he can no longer fend off younger talent.
Mendez anticipates that Makhachev may fight only two more times after facing Jack Della Maddalena, leaving uncertainty about his future in MMA.
Makhachev is unbeaten in 15 fights since his only loss, but Dagestani champions often retire while at their peak, as seen with Khabib.
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