Chael Sonnen Looking Forward to Islam Makhachev Reaching Heights Khabib Nurmagomedov Never Did

UFC legend Chael Sonnen commends Islam Makhachev for taking on challenges that his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, didn't.

Chael Sonnen Looking Forward to Islam Makhachev Reaching Heights Khabib Nurmagomedov Never Did

Chael Sonnen commends Islam Makhachev's ability and career (via MMA Weekly, ESPN)

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The world of mixed martial arts continues to evolve under the influence of past champions. Few have left as lasting an impact as Khabib Nurmagomedov, whose dominance reshaped the lightweight division. With his retirement, the focus has turned to Islam Makhachev to uphold that legacy. As Chael Sonnen noted, Makhachev now stands at the stage of his career where he seeks to define his own path.

Makhachev’s respect for Khabib has been a central factor in his rise. He trained under Khabib’s late father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, whose demanding methods shaped the foundations of both fighters. Those lessons propelled Makhachev to capture the lightweight title at UFC 280, where his technical mastery and discipline reflected the same dominance that defined the Eagle’s reign.

Makhachev now faces the most significant test of his career. He is set to move up in weight to challenge Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight title at UFC 322. The bout represents more than a title pursuit as it marks his attempt to become a two-division champion. Sonnen recently emphasized that this move could be the moment Makhachev steps out from under Khabib’s influence and builds a legacy of his own.

It’s something he will never discuss but if you don’t always wanna be the parent to King Khabib’s throne something that Khabib didn’t do and this is his opportunity. I know that’s not his motivation, he is not trying to show up… but I am just suggesting at some point his grandkids are gonna look back on his career and they will now have something they can turn to that is different than uncle Khabib.

Chael Sonnen via ESPN

Earlier, Sonnen had expressed doubts about Makhachev’s size and ability to handle the physical demands of welterweight. However, reports from training camp have indicated otherwise. Coach Javier Mendez was reportedly taken aback by Makhachev’s muscle growth and conditioning for UFC 322, noting how he added power while retaining his trademark speed.

Makhachev’s dominance has drawn widespread recognition from peers and analysts alike. Fighters such as Dan Hooker have credited him for facing challenges that Khabib never did. His willingness to fight across divisions shows a pursuit of greatness that extends beyond legacy. His performances over the likes of Alexander Volkanovski and Dustin Poirier add to his case as one of the most complete MMA athletes.

Khabib Nurmagomedov’s return to Makhachev’s corner for UFC 322 adds another layer of intrigue. The reunion carries both emotional weight and heightened pressure as mentor and student reunite. For Islam Makhachev, this fight represents more than a shot at history; it is a chance to solidify his independence while honouring the values that shaped him.

Khabib Nurmagomedov lays out a hypothetical situation concerning 2015 version of Islam Makhachev

Islam Makhachev made his UFC debut in 2015 with a submission win over Leo Kuntz before suffering his only loss to Adriano Martins. Since then, he has gone unbeaten, building one of the longest streaks in the lightweight division. With victories over Bobby Green, Dan Hooker, and Arman Tsarukyan, Makhachev quickly rose from prospect to the undisputed champion.

Islam Makhachev Khabib Nurmagomedov
Islam Makhachev Khabib Nurmagomedov (via Instagram)

Even before the young Dagestani’s UFC debut, Khabib Nurmagomedov had been vocal about his teammate’s potential and frequently highlighted his skill set and work ethic. As both men trained together in Dagestan, Khabib consistently predicted Makhachev’s rise to world champion. Years later, the ‘Eagle’ has revisited that evolution by asking Makhachev how he would fare against his 2015 self.

One Round maximum, I would submit him. I wasn’t that good of a grappler back then. I would get him with a D’Arce choke.

Islam Makhachev via X

From a promising grappler to a complete mixed martial artist, Islam Makhachev’s rise has been built on refinement and discipline. His striking, conditioning, and fight IQ have evolved alongside his trademark ground control, transforming him into a well-rounded and formidable champion. The difference between the 2015 prospect and today’s titleholder reflects years of steady growth and experience.

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