Islam Makhachev has officially become the owner of the longest winning streak in UFC history after securing his 17th consecutive victory at UFC 330 in Philadelphia.
The Russian champion defeated Ireland’s Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision to retain his UFC welterweight title, with the judges scoring the five-round contest 49-46, 49-46 and 48-47 in his favour.
But beyond another successful title defence, Makhachev was fighting for a place in the UFC record books. His victory moved him past former middleweight champion Anderson Silva, whose record of 16 consecutive wins had stood for more than a decade.
Despite giving up a significant advantage in height and reach, Makhachev relied on his trademark wrestling and grappling to control crucial stages of the fight.
Garry showed resilience and had his moments, particularly in the middle rounds, but Makhachev’s control and composure ultimately proved decisive.
The victory also further strengthens Makhachev’s legacy as one of the UFC’s elite fighters.
After dominating the lightweight division and later moving up to welterweight, he has now successfully defended his second UFC title.
At 34, Makhachev’s record now stands at 29 wins and just one defeat, while his 17-fight UFC winning streak has established a new benchmark for future generations to chase.
