Published 61 days ago
The UFC Russian champion wants to end his career in his home country, despite a long absence from Russia.
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Islam Makhachev, UFC welterweight champion, dreams of ending his career with a legendary fight in Moscow, his home country. Despite an eight-year absence from Russia under the American organization’s banner, he hopes to stage his final bout there. Before that, he faces Ian Machado Garry on August 15 at UFC 330 in Philadelphia, a decisive fight for his title defense.
To remember:
- Islam Makhachev wants to end his career with a fight in Moscow, his home country.
- He has fought only once in Russia since 2015 under the UFC banner.
- Makhachev faces Ian Machado Garry on August 15 at UFC 330 for a title defense.
- A win over Garry would strengthen his position before a potential return to Russia.
A Dream Ending in Moscow
Islam Makhachev, the undisputed UFC welterweight champion, has a dream: to end his career in his home country, Russia. In a recent interview, he spoke of his ambition to fight his final bout in Moscow, where he would enjoy unwavering support from his compatriots. A prospect that contrasts with his recent journey, marked by a long absence from Russia under the American organization’s banner.
Only One Fight in Eight Years Under the UFC Era
Since joining the UFC in 2015, Makhachev has set foot in Russia only once, with a decision victory over Arman Tsarukyan in April 2019. This fight, held in Moscow, remains his only bout in Russia under the UFC banner, despite a promising career that began on home soil. This absence is partly due to geopolitical and logistical constraints, but it does nothing to diminish his attachment to his country.
A Crucial Challenge Before Retirement
This Saturday, August 15, Makhachev will face Irishman Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 in Philadelphia. This 77 kg title fight promises to be a crucial step before considering his long-awaited return to Russia. A win over Garry would solidify his position as champion and allow him to approach the final stretch of his career with peace of mind. For Makhachev, this fight is more than just a title defense: it’s an opportunity to once again prove his dominance before possibly ending his career in grand style in Moscow.
If Makhachev manages to defeat Garry, his dream of a final fight in Moscow could become a reality. Ending his career in Russia, in front of his fans, would be the perfect culmination for a champion who has never forgotten his roots.