Islam Makhachev Advised to Retire Before Getting Exposed by ‘Real Welterweights’

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev gets called out by Joaquin Buckley for trying to give Kamaru Usman the next title shot.

Islam Makhachev Advised to Retire Before Getting Exposed by ‘Real Welterweights’

Islam Makhachev handed warnings about fighting at welterweight (via Instagram)

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Islam Makhachev’s move to the 170-pound division was heavily disputed by established and emerging welterweights alike. Many argued the division’s hierarchy had shifted too frequently, leaving younger contenders overlooked. The belief was that contenders deserved opportunities rather than an incoming champion. Joaquin Buckley later called out Makhachev’s view that Kamaru Usman should get the shot.

Makhachev vacated his UFC lightweight title before committing fully to the welterweight division. He went on to defeat Jack Della Maddalena in a one-sided championship fight at UFC 322. The victory earned him the welterweight belt and made him the 11th two-division champion in UFC history. It also extended his UFC winning streak to 16 fights, tying Anderson Silva’s long-standing record.

Following the title win, the Dagestani champion addressed the immediate future of the welterweight division. He stated that Usman stood as the clear number one contender due to his historic championship reign. That assessment quickly became a central talking point across the sport. Buckley’s comments, shared publicly, directly challenged the logic behind that position.

Whoever wins that fight between Islam vs Kamaru can get out of here, because if Usman wins, he’s one and done, because he said he’s moving to get that title against Khamzat for the rematch. If Islam wins, he said he’s gonna hold it down for a long time, but I don’t believe that. If Islam gets the fight that he wants, that means not only did you submit your name at lightweight, but then you also got the double champ status, and then you also beat a GOAT in Usman.

Joaquin Buckley via Submission Radio

UFC 322 also showcased the rise of younger welterweights making strong cases for title consideration. Carlos Prates and Michael Morales both earned impressive victories that elevated their standing. The following week, Ian Garry added momentum by defeating Belal Muhammad at UFC Qatar. These performances supported Buckley’s belief that Makhachev faces tougher matchups against younger contenders.

What else is there to do? What else can he do? You’d be foolish to keep fighting, because to me Islam is not a natural 170 fighter, and that will get exposed if he fights a person like myself, Ian Garry, or Michael Morales.

Joaquin Buckley via Submission Radio

Buckley himself has continued to build momentum within the welterweight ranks. He holds notable victories over Colby Covington, Vicente Luque, and Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson. Those wins have positioned him as a legitimate threat in the division. His most recent fight, however, ended in an unanimous decision loss to Usman in June 2025.

Others have echoed concerns about Kamaru Usman being the first title defense in the UFC community. Welterweight contender Sean Brady argued such a matchup could stall the division’s momentum. There is also concern about inactivity while Islam Makhachev recovers from the bout. The debate highlights ongoing tension between legacy matchups and divisional progression.

Islam Makhachev reveals his source of motivation

Islam Makhachev’s rise to the top of mixed martial arts has been shaped by long-term discipline and a sense of personal purpose. His journey from Dagestan to UFC champion reflects years of structured training and sacrifice. Behind his competitive success lies a consistent focus on long-term stability. That foundation has influenced both his career decisions and public outlook.

Islam Makhachev at UFC 322
Islam Makhachev at UFC 322 (via MMA Mania)

Makhachev hails from Makhachkala, Russia, and has trained throughout his career under Khabib Nurmagomedov and Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. Their system shaped his wrestling-based style and disciplined mindset. After becoming a two-division champion, he was seen placing both belts on his father’s shoulders. The moment reflected the personal motivation that continues to drive his career.

I had a dream. My father and my mother, who worked their entire lives from 6 a.m. to late at night, could finally rest. They worked so hard for me and my brother. And I achieved that dream.

Islam Makhachev via UFC

Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov believed in Makhachev from the very beginning of his professional journey. His guidance played a central role in shaping Islam Makhachev’s discipline and consistency at the highest level. Makhachev’s own father, Ramazan Makhachev, supported his career by selling tomatoes in their village to fund his training. That family support helped lay the foundation for his success and legacy.

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