Islam Makhachev on Why He’s “Good” With Comparisons to Khabib Nurmagomedov
By FCF Staff
Being compared to one of the greatest fighters MMA has ever known comes with a lot of pressure and expectations. But, Islam Makhachev says he’s just fine with being compared to Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Due to Makhachev’s grappling-centric approach, and because he’s a longtime teammate of Khabib’s, he’s often been mentioned alongside the now retired, lightweight. Nurmagomedov has also predicted his friend will win the UFC’s lightweight title.
Ahead of Makhachev’s fight this Saturday with Drew Dober, he had this to say about being compared to Khabib (quotes via MMA Fighting).
“I like that,” Makhachev said during UFC 259 media day. “Because Khabib is a very good guy, a champion, that’s why I don’t care about this. That’s why I’m good with it.”
“You know this is motivation for me,” Makhachev explained. “Because now people talk about me. A lot of people tell me ‘you’re going to be next, you’re going to be champion,’ that’s why I have to train more. Just training. That’s it.
The 29-year-old Makhachev (18-1) hasn’t fought since September, 2019, when he recorded a decision win over Davi Ramos. The Dagestani fighter has won five in a row.
Dober (23-9) is coming off a stoppage win over Alexander Hernandez last May, and has won three straight.