Joe Rogan says Makhachev may retire after UFC 330

Islam Makhachev (34, Russia), the UFC welterweight champion, is already considered one of the best fighters of his generation. Having conquered two weight classes, a win Saturday would push him past Anderson Silva's record of 16 consecutive UFC victories to 17, a new all-time mark.

Makhachev makes his first title defense at UFC 330 on Saturday at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, facing Ian Machado Garry in the main event. It will be his first bout since he defeated Jack Della Maddalena last November to add the welterweight belt to his lightweight title.

Having achieved nearly everything the sport has to offer, Makhachev has been the subject of persistent retirement speculation heading into the fight. Fans and those close to him have urged him to keep competing, while others argue it would be far better for his legacy to walk away at the peak rather than risk a loss on his record.

UFC commentator Joe Rogan is among those who believe Makhachev could hang up his gloves after the fight. On a recent episode of his podcast "The Joe Rogan Experience," Rogan said he could easily picture a scenario in which Makhachev submits Garry and then announces his retirement.

"Makhachev has competed in two weight classes and became world champion in both," Rogan said. "It wouldn't surprise me if, after he submits Ian Garry, he says, 'That's enough. I'm going to coach, just like Khabib.'"

Rogan's remarks are speculation, however. Makhachev recently denied reports that he plans to retire after UFC 330, saying he intends to keep fighting and set new records.

Makhachev is expected to lean heavily on his elite grappling to defend his welterweight title against Garry. Rogan particularly praised his ground game, calling him "the apex predator of the food chain."