Statistic reveals interesting similarity between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev's octagon journeys leading to their first title fights
A keen-eyed MMA fan has noted the remarkable similarity between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev's time spent in the octagon before landing their first title shot.
Makhachev is set to headline UFC 280 next weekend when he faces former champion Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title. The Russian fighter is riding high on a 10-fight win streak and will fight for the belt in what will be his 13th appearance in the organization.
In comparison, Nurmagomedov, who retired as the 155-pound titleholder, fought for the title in his 10th fight, defeating Al Laquinta via unanimous decision. 'The Eagle', who is now a mentor for Makhachev, spent five seconds more in total octagon time than his protege, despite competing in three fewer fights.
The Twitter user who made the discovery wrote:
"Khabib Nurmagomedov's octagon time until getting a title fight (1:50:12) Islam Makhachev's octagon time until getting a title fight (1:50:07)"
Khabib Nurmagomedovâs octagon time until getting a title fight (1:50:12)
Islam Makhachevâs octagon time until getting a title fight (1:50:07)
The only blip on the 31-year-old's impressive resume was his surprise KO loss to Adriano Martins in only his second UFC appearance. Makhachev remained intent on proving it was a fluke and has since amassed his impressive 10-fight winning run.
Makhachev's last four fights have all ended with a finish and it is no surprise that he's looked at his most dangerous with Nurmagomedov in his corner.
Daniel Cormier responds after Khabib Nurmagomedov states he expects Islam Makhachev to walk through Charles Oliveira
Khabib Nurmagomedov has spent much of Islam Makhachev's fight buildup uncharacteristically vocal in regards to Makhachev's chances against Charles Oliveira.
'The Eagle', who spoke very little trash talk during his own career, recently stated that he expects his fellow Dagestani to dominate the Brazilian and walk away with the title. The former lightweight champ even suggested he wouldn't be surprised if 'Do Bronx' didn't bother to show up.
I just think Charles Oliveira will not show up in Abu Dhabi and the UFC will replace Charles with Beneil Dariush.
Regardless of who the opponent will be, @MAKHACHEVMMA is on his way to becoming the best in the world #ufc280
Daniel Cormier, a close friend and former AKA teammate of 'The Eagle', believes he knows what his friend meant. In a recent episode of 3 Rounds with DC, Cormier explained:
"You expect your guy to look like a world beater every time, especially whenever he's fighting for his first UFC championship. But you've also got to be very cognizant of what's in front of you, and I think that is where Khabib is saying, 'I understand the dangers.' So they're spending more time working on those areas where they feel there is danger."
Catch the full episode here: