- Will Islam Makhachev retire from the UFC by the end of 2027?23¢23%
Islam Makhachev, the 34-year-old UFC welterweight champion with an active 18-fight win streak, has repeatedly rejected retirement rumors and signaled intent to compete well beyond 2027. Fresh off a unanimous decision title defense over Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330 in August 2026, he targeted a pre-Ramadan welterweight defense against Carlos Prates in January 2027 while emphasizing a desire to extend records and maintain the “champion’s life.” Minor spine maintenance has not disrupted his schedule or dominance, and he has voiced plans to fight multiple times annually when healthy. Trader consensus at 81% on “No” reflects this sustained motivation, lack of age-related decline, and explicit long-term goals rather than any imminent exit.
Rules
This market will resolve to "Yes" if Islam Makhachev officially announces his retirement from the UFC by December 31, 2027, 11:59 PM ET. Otherwise, this market will resolve to "No". To resolve "Yes", the announcement must clearly state that Islam Makhachev is retiring from the UFC. The announcement must come from Islam Makhachev himself or his official representatives. An announcement that Makhachev is leaving the UFC while continuing to compete professionally in mixed martial arts or another combat sport will qualify. The retirement must be intended to take effect immediately. An announcement that Makhachev intends to retire at an unspecified future date, or after a specified number of additional bouts, will not qualify. The primary resolution source for this market will be official statements from Islam Makhachev; however, a consensus of credible reporting may also be used.