Many athletes hate being in contrast to different greats in the identical sport, however they don’t rely Islam Makhachev amongst them. As he seems to be to construct a six-game win streak with a scheduled showdown towards Drew Dober at UFC 259, 29-year-old Dagestani light-weight not often escapes questions or feedback in regards to the similarities he shares together with his pal and teammate, Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Not solely have they skilled collectively for a number of years whereas below the identical coaches, Nurmagomedov usually touts Makhachev as the way forward for the division And that’s excessive reward coming from arguably the best 155-pound fighter in the historical past of the game.
Whereas he’s actually forging his personal path, Makhachev actually appreciates the Nurmagomedov comparisons as a result of meaning he have to be doing one thing proper.
“I like that. As a result of Khabib is an excellent man, a champion, that’s why I don’t care about this. That’s why I’m good with it.
In fact, being known as “the next Khabib” additionally comes with a sure expectation and stress contemplating the lengthy record of accomplishments the reigning UFC light-weight champion amassed throughout his profession.
He desires to follow the trail of Khabib
In a manner that may very well be setting Makhachev for failure if he can not meet the identical requirements set by Nurmagomedov., however he prefers to see these noble targets in one other manner.
it is a motivation for me. As a result of now individuals speak about me. Many individuals inform me ‘You’re going to be the next, you’re going to be a champion’, that’s why I’ve to practice extra. Simply coaching. That’s it«.
“[Khabib] confirmed me all the best way. It confirmed me what I’ve to do to be there. Now I feel an excellent successful streak, I simply have to end off the next opponent. Perhaps a struggle or two, I’ll be the next champion ”.
As a result of Nurmagomedov has been champion or has been close to the highest of the division in current years, Makhachev by no means needed to put himself in a place the place they might battle as a result of there isn’t any chance {that a} struggle will ever happen between them.
Following his newest win over Justin Gaethje final October, Nurmagomedov introduced his retirement and whereas UFC president Dana White has been doing his greatest to encourage him to come again for yet one more struggle, all indicators appear to level to the undefeated Russian actually calling it a profession.
That may enable Makhachev to begin making his personal transfer up the light-weight ranks the place he already has a confidence. Supreme when it comes to matchups towards one of the best fighters in the world with names like Dustin Poirier, Charles Oliveira and Michael Chandler.
“I’m very excited. When will I struggle these guys as a result of I simply need to take a look at my expertise. All my life I practice with the champion. That’s why I don’t assume these guys are going to give me an issue”.
Earlier than I can provide you with one of the best of one of the best at light-weight, Makhachev first has to get previous Dober, who has a formidable successful streak after demolishing his final three opponents in a row by knockout.
There are only a few days left so you possibly can assist the wrestler and collaborator of SUPER LUCHAS, Heavy Boy, with any quantity. who’s elevating funds for a fragile surgical procedure.
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