5 reasons why Islam Makhachev could go on to have a greater UFC career than Khabib Nurmagomedov
Islam Makhachev is regarded as the successor to Khabib Nurmagomedov. Both men are Dagestan's greatest exports to MMA. While Khabib has solidified his career as an all-time UFC great, Islam is yet to win the UFC lightweight championship.
However, as a well-rounded mixed martial artist with a combination of technical striking and sublime grappling, Islam seems destined for championship success at the top of the UFC.
He may never have the mystique cultivated by Khabib's undefeated record. Still, Islam's superior striking, varied footwork, and cleaner takedown entries might render him a more successful fighter than his more famous compatriot.
However, a cleaner skill-set alone will not lead to a career greater than Khabib's. Other variables will also play a part. This list looks at five reasons why Islam Makhachev might go on to enjoy a greater career than Khabib.
#5. He has Khabib as his coach
Since his retirement from MMA as an active fighter, Khabib has transitioned into the role of a coach. While many athletes often fail to translate their past sporting success into coaching success, Khabib did so with flying colors, exhibiting a keen mind for mixed martial arts.
When Khabib the corner, it’s little bit cheating. 🤣
Когда Хабиб в углу, это немного читерство. 🤣 instagram.com/p/CVsRoSGhioX/…
A smart coach is a boon, but a smart coach whose last fight was so recent that he's still familiar with the current crop of the division is an even greater boon.
With Khabib in his corner, Islam Makhachev benefits from a wealth of knowledge that will ultimately improve his skill-set, given how closely Khabib's grappling style resembles his own.
This was best seen in Islam's recent victory over Dan Hooker. It saw Khabib walk Islam through a set-up for a kimura, instructing him to hook his leg behind Hooker's head for more leverage and better control of his opponent's posture, enabling him to fully lock in the shoulder lock.