Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov are often mentioned in the same breath. Makhachev, the reigning UFC lightweight champion, is making his mark in the division. He is frequently compared to his mentor and former teammate, Nurmagomedov, who is hailed by many as the greatest lightweight fighter of all time. Both fighters have trained at the renowned American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) alongside other MMA legends, including Daniel Cormier.
Cormier, a former two-division UFC champion, has a close relationship with both Russian fighters. He regards Nurmagomedov as one of the most dominant fighters in MMA history, noting his perfect 29-0 record. However, Cormier believes Makhachev brings a more dangerous skill set to the table, especially due to his superior striking abilities.
Makhachev is on the brink of tying Nurmagomedov’s record for title defenses in the lightweight division. His first two defenses were victories over former featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski. Makhachev’s potential contenders are currently scheduled for fights at UFC 300, leaving him waiting for a suitable opponent after Ramadan, with a return planned for June.
Following Dustin Poirier’s recent victory, he emerges as a strong contender for Makhachev. Cormier supports a title fight between Makhachev and Poirier, drawing parallels to how stars are made in sports and entertainment through the passing of the torch from one generation to the next.
In other news, Marcin Tybura is open to fighting Jairzinho Rozenstruik but prefers a higher-ranked opponent. Bryan Battle criticizes Ange Loosa following their no-contest bout at UFC Vegas 88, accusing Loosa of looking for an easy way out. Marcin Tybura earns a $50k bonus for his submission victory over Tai Tuivasa, and the UFC community reacts to Tybura’s swift win. The UFC 300 fight card is graded, and Conor McGregor expresses eagerness to return to fighting after promoting “Road House.”
The article also covers upcoming fights, including Jihin Radzuan vs. Ayaka Miura at ONE Fight Night 21 and several matchups at UFC Vegas 90 and UFC 301. Additionally, it mentions fighters’ reactions on social media, including Sean O’Malley’s callout of Marab Dvalishvili and Dustin Poirier’s poetic musing on fighting decisions.
Lastly, the article invites readers to participate in a poll comparing the danger posed by Nurmagomedov and Makhachev in their primes, reflecting on the ongoing debate about their legacies in the sport.