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Islam Makhachev has no plans of walking away from pro MMA competition at the conclusion of UFC 330.

Many argue that Makhachev has nothing left to prove having captured UFC gold in two weight classes and not suffering a loss since 2015. For the most part, the two-division UFC titleholder has looked dominant. Even when he was tested against fellow future UFC Hall of Famer Alexander Volkanovski, Makhachev delivered a definitive knockout win in the rematch.

Now that he’s the welterweight ruler in search of his first successful title defense, it’s got people talking about how much longer Makhachev will compete. Beloved UFC color commentator Joe Rogan recently said he wouldn’t be surprised if the 170-pound king hangs up his gloves if he defeats Ian Machado Garry on Saturday in Philadelphia.

Fans of Makhachev can breathe a little easier after the pound-for-pound great told TMZ Sports that he isn’t going anywhere for the time being (h/t Bloody Elbow).

“No, no, no. I told you I like to be UFC champion and we’re still going,” Makhachev said. “It’s not about numbers, about age. It’s about your health, how you feel. Not everybody can feel the same at 34. That’s why I feel great. No injuries. I still enjoy the sports, you know. That’s why we will fight again. You will see me many more times.”

Oftentimes, Makhachev and MMA legend Khabib Nurmagomedov will get compared given the two are childhood friends and have trained together for years. Nurmagomedov retired with a perfect 29-0 record, but many felt he still had plenty of fight left in him. It appears Makhachev will be taking a bit of a different path and is looking to keep fighting for as long as his body holds up.

Is it a good idea for Islam Makhachev to continue fighting beyond UFC 330, or do you think he should consider walking away sooner rather than later? Sound off in the comments below.

This article appeared first on BJPENN.COM