Khabib Nurmagomedov believes UFC champion Islam Makhachev could retire within three years.
Makhachev, 31, won the vacant UFC lightweight title by tapping out former champion Charles Oliveira in October. It was a full circle moment for Nurmagomedov as his childhood friend won the belt he held for several years, with 'The Eagle' only vacating the title last year after promising his mother he wouldn't fight again following the death of his father.
Nurmagomedov was still in the prime of his career when he decided to retire with many fans since questioning his legacy in the sport because of the decision. The UFC legend now hopes Makhachev can make six defences of his newly-acquired title and retire from the sport on top.