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Share on FacebookUFC commentator Joe Rogan has sparked major discussion ahead of UFC 330 by suggesting that reigning welterweight champion Islam Makhachev might retire this weekend. Speaking on his official podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience, the veteran analyst explained that the pound-for-pound king has already achieved enough historic success to walk away from mixed martial arts permanently. Rogan pointed out that Makhachev has competed in two different weight classes and captured world championships in both divisions.
Rogan mapped out a clear scenario where Makhachev dominates challenger Ian Machado Garry in Philadelphia and calls it a career right inside the Octagon. He noted that if Makhachev secures a submission victory, the champion could easily declare he has had enough. According to Rogan, Makhachev could follow the exact blueprint of his longtime friend, mentor, and former champion Khabib Nurmagomedov by shifting his full attention to coaching the next generation of fighters.
If this retirement prediction comes true, Rogan expects the UFC to quickly organize a vacant title fight. He stated that rising contenders Michael Morales and Carlos Prates would be the perfect matchup to compete for the undisputed welterweight belt. However, reporters note that Makhachev himself has recently dismissed these rumors, publicly stating that he wishes to keep fighting and breaking records.
