Islam Makhachev once publicly revealed Khabib Nurmagomedov’s spending during training camp

UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has carried on the legacy of Khabib Nurmagomedov, since the latter's retirement in 2020.

Islam Makhachev once publicly revealed Khabib Nurmagomedov’s spending during training camp

Islam Makhachev talks about Khabib Nurmagomedov's humble and giving nature (X)

Islam Makhachev is the current pound-for-pound best fighter in the world. The lightweight champion has defended his title four times and is already more successful than any other lightweight in history. However, the fighter never forgets how influential the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov has been in his career. 

After Nurmagomedov’s retirement, he followed his father’s footsteps and dived into the role of coaching his teammates. With years of knowledge, he has used all his resources to make Makhachev a world champion. During one of his pressers, the Dagestani talked about Nurmagomedov’s selfless service.

Islam talks about people comparing him to Khabib
byu/Shamsud-deen inufc

He is coming to USA without his family. His stay here one two month just for help. He didn’t take money. He just come and help all team. He do everything. He rent big house, he rent lot of cars for team and nobody pay. He pay for everything. 

Islam Makhachev via UFC presser 

At UFC 280, Makhachev beat Charles Oliveira to become the UFC lightweight champion via submission. It was a dominating win and the fighter proved why he is levels ahead of everyone else. According to reports, Nurmagomedov spent a whopping $1 million for the Makhachev’s training camp for that fight.

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After Nurmagomedov left the sport, Makhachev carried the Dagestani legacy and dominance. While he often gets compared to the ‘Eagle’, the fighter doesn’t mind as he aspires to be as great as Nurmagomedov.

Khabib Nurmagomedov always knew Islam Makhachev’s potential 

Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev met as children in Dagestan, Russia. They both trained under Khabib’s father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, who ran a disciplined wrestling and sambo school. Growing up together, they became close friends and training partners, sharing the same philosophy of hard work and discipline. 

Khabib Nurmagomedov's always beloved in Islam Makhachev's talent
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s always beloved in Islam Makhachev’s talent (via MMA Fighting)

Abdulmanap mentored them both, shaping their fighting styles and careers. Their bond strengthened over the years, with the ‘Eagle’ putting his trust on Makhachev. Even before he won the lightweight championship, Nurmagomedov knew that Makhachev was different from other fighters. 

YouTube video

There is fighters, there is champions and there is elite. My opinion is like Islam is elite in UFC right now. Not many fighters can call them. There’s almost 700  fighters in UFC. Not all of them maybe 20, maybe 20 guys elite maybe. But I think little bit less than 20.

Khabib Nurmagomedov via Anatomy of the Fighter

Currently, Makhachev is the best fighter in the world with the biggest fan following among the active champions. While he received initial criticism for his fighting style, over the years he has changed their opinion of him. Now, many fans and experts regard Makhachev as one of the most complete fighters in UFC history.

Islam Makhachev’s dominance in the UFC lightweight division

Islam Makhachev dominates with elite sambo, relentless wrestling, and suffocating top control. He seamlessly blends striking and grappling, making opponents hesitant to engage. His clinch work and takedown setups mirror Khabib’s but with refined submissions. His recent finishes against Dustin Poirier and Renato Moicano showed his lethal submission ability.

Islam Makhachev dominance in UFC
Islam Makhachev dominance in UFC (via X)

Makhachev’s improved striking, including sharp counters and precise kicks, complements his grappling. His fight IQ mixed with relentless pressure has made him a dangerous threat to other lightweights. Lightweight division being the most competitive in the roster, makes the Dagestani’s reign even more impressive.

Currently, his throne is being targeted by the likes of Arman Tsarukyan, Ilia Topuria, etc and fans are excited for these match-ups. Recently, Makhachev seemingly rejected the opportunity to fight Topuria which attracted some criticism. However, UFC veteran, Chael Sonnen came forward to defend the champion and his reputation.