Islam Makhachev's Refusal to Rush Back Could Actually Be a Smart Career Decision

Islam Makhachev was criticised for pulling out of his title defence against Carlos Prates in January. Prates was slated to face Michael Morales for the interim welterweight title at UFC 336, but the UFC was apparently notified that Prates would not be ready. “It was a delay, as expected,” said Prates. Yet in terms of career management, Makhachev’s patience may have been the best career decision he’s ever made.

Why Islam Makhachev Needed Break After Fighting  Garry

Makhachev, 35, defeated Garry  in five rounds at UFC 330. He would have had to enter the Octagon with a knockout fighter in a few months to fight Prates, before he had fully recharged his body. There’s no reason for the champion to gamble on that.

It’s also worth noting that Makhachev’s first professional loss came in 2015 when he was knocked out in the opening round by Adriano Martins. Chins don't improve with age, but that was a long time ago. He doesn’t seem to be regressing, but a 35-year-old fighter has to look at durability differently than a 28-year-old.

Islam Makhachev has Never Fought a Knockout Artist

Makhachev will have to wait to see what happens in Prates vs. Morales, which isn’t going to make things any easier. Whoever leaves Toronto with the interim strap will be riding high on confidence, because both men are deadly strikers who love to land big shots. Makhachev has some room to breathe. Not an easy match up. After that battle he can retreat, walk away or defend again.

Safer Fights For Islam Makhachev

If Makhachev is healthy and wants to move up to a better spot, Shavkat Rakhmonov is the obvious choice. Rakhmonov is a very good striker but he is a grappler first and foremost and Makhachev could potentially dominate a more grappling orientated fight. The timing could be right as doctors have said Rakhmonov could return sometime next year.

Another option would be a rematch with Garry who would not offer the same one-punch threat. Garry is a volume and precision hitter, not a knockout artist, so even if Makhachev lost a decision it would be very different than being knocked out.

But the champion is now in the business of protecting his legacy — and at 35 years old, that may be more than a quick comeback.