Daniel Cormier, a former UFC two-division champion and commentator, shared his concerns on June 17, 2025, about Islam Makhachev’s potential retirement after three more fights. The lightweight champion’s possible exit has left Cormier and fans anxious to see more of his skills in the octagon.
Cormier’s words, posted in a video two days ago, emphasize the need to cherish Makhachev’s remaining time, pointing to exciting matchups ahead.
Cormier’s Retirement Concerns
Cormier expressed surprise at Makhachev’s plans.
“Islam Makhachev might have three fights, including Jack Della Maddalena,” he said. “That right there is where our energy should be spent as Islam fans. How in the world does it feel like another dominant champion may be saying ‘It’s about time?’”
He urged action, adding:
“If Islam comes out and tells us ‘I’ve got three fights left,’ we gotta lock in. We saw Khabib do it, and he never looked back. That should be worrisome to us as mixed martial arts fans. We have so many more fights we want to see. We want to see him against Jack Della, we want to see him against [Kamaru] Usman, and Ilia Topuria. It’s crazy!”
⚡️Daniel Cormier on Islam Makhachev planning to retire after 3 fights:
“That should be worrisome to us as MMA fans. We saw Khabib do it and he never looked back.”
🎥 @dc_mma ▫️ pic.twitter.com/0r1eBb4cyW
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) June 17, 2025
Islam Makhachev’s MMA Journey
Born on September 27, 1991, in Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia, Makhachev started MMA in 2010. He entered the UFC in 2014, claiming the lightweight title with a win over Charles Oliveira in 2022. His record is 27-1, featuring victories over Dustin Poirier and Alexander Volkanovski.
At 33, Makhachev trains with a top team, holding a 15-fight win streak. His potential welterweight move adds to his story.
Born on March 20, 1979, in Louisiana, Cormier began wrestling young. He turned to MMA in 2005, joining the UFC in 2013. He captured the light heavyweight title in 2015 and heavyweight title in 2018, retiring with a 22-3 record.
Now 46, Cormier provides analysis on ESPN, using his experience to guide discussions. His voice carries weight in the sport.
Makhachev’s rumored three fights include a welterweight bout with Jack Della Maddalena. Fans also dream of matchups with Kamaru Usman, a former welterweight champ, and Ilia Topuria, the featherweight titleholder.
The shift to welterweight follows his lightweight success, aiming for dual titles. Cormier’s list reflects popular hopes.
Makhachev recently vacated his lightweight belt to pursue welterweight opportunities. His next fight may involve Della Maddalena, though schedules remain unclear.
At 33, his peak raises questions about retirement timing. Cormier’s call to focus underscores the stakes.
Makhachev’s exit could shift the lightweight division. Contenders like Charles Oliveira and Justin Gaethje may step up, reshaping rankings.
