Islam Makhachev sets eyes on achieving what Khabib Nurmagomedov could not in 29-0 career
Unlike Khabib Nurmagomedov, his protege Islam Makhachev is determined to move to the UFC welterweight division.
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Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov in training (Image via Instagram/@islam_makhachev)
UFC champions often seek to further enhance their status within the community. Over the years, many champions have attempted to compete for titles in higher-weight divisions. Reigning UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev is also pursuing this goal, aiming for an achievement that even his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, could not accomplish.
Islam Makhachev is currently scheduled to face Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311, a pay-per-view event at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. In the lead-up to the fight night, Makhachev participated in multiple interviews. In an exclusive interview with UFC on TNT Sports, host Caroline Pearce was eager to learn about the lightweight champion’s future plans.
It’s not my job it’s my goal… I’m not gonna leave this sport without the second belt, this is my goal…
Islam Makhachev via UFC on TNT Sports
Makhachev emphasized that his goal is to pursue a second UFC belt. Over the years, several top fighters have achieved this feat in the promotion. However, not even Khabib Nurmagomedov has accomplished this despite boasting a perfect record (29-0) in MMA. One reason for this is Nurmagomedov’s sudden and shocking retirement from the sport back in 2021.
"I'm not leaving this sport without a second belt" 🏆🏆@MAKHACHEVMMA wants to feel glory as a double champion before his career is through #UFC311
— UFC on TNT Sports (@ufcontnt) January 16, 2025
🎙️ @CarolinePearce pic.twitter.com/FH9m2j5jIS
Unlike Nurmagomedov, Makhachev still has many ambitions to pursue in the UFC. Recently, there have been rumors about replacing Makhachev with another Dagestani lightweight fighter. However, as the UFC lightweight champion has set his sights on winning additional UFC titles, Makhachev’s retirement will be postponed. Currently, one of the most obvious titles for him to pursue is the UFC welterweight crown.
Islam Makhachev doesn’t like the idea of fighting Belal Muhammad or Shavkat Rakhmonov
Islam Makhachev currently holds the UFC lightweight championship, while Belal Muhammad is the reigning welterweight champion. Muhammad won the welterweight title after defeating Leon Edwards in his last UFC fight at UFC 304. Since then, he has not yet made his first title defense. Interestingly, Muhammad was scheduled to defend his title against Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310.
Due to a toe infection, Muhammad had to withdraw from his scheduled fight against Rakhmonov. With growing interest surrounding their potential matchup, several prominent figures in the UFC community have weighed in on it. Recently, Islam Makhachev, who is targeting the welterweight championship, shared his insights on the potential title clash between Muhammad and Rakhmonov.
Well, I know both guys. These are not the fights I would like, for sure… Both (Belal and Rakhmonov) are world class fighters, with all the skills. And they’re going to have a good fight coming up, that I’m interested to see.
Islam Makhachev via Ushatayka
Islam Makhachev doesn’t like the idea of facing either Belal or Shavkat:
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) January 15, 2025
“I know both guys. These are not the fights I would like…
Both are world class fighters… they’re going to have a good fight that I’m interested to see.”
🎥 Ushatayka #UFC311pic.twitter.com/xkhycsxqrN
Makhachev seemed hesitant when discussing his potential fight against Muhammad or Rakhmonov. One reason for his reluctance is the camaraderie between the UFC lightweight champion and the UFC welterweight champion. While preparing for his title fight, Muhammad trained with Makhachev. As a result, even Khabib Nurmagomedov is not keen on seeing them clash in the octagon.
Related: Islam Makhachev Net Worth, Endorsements, UFC contract, Wife and House
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Nilaav Gogoi
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