“This changes everything” – Fans fear for Charles Oliveira as Khabib Nurmagomedov joins as head coach for Islam Makhachev’s fight at UFC 294

MMA legend Khabib Nurmagomedov came back to coach for Islam Makhachev for UFC 294. It could prove beneficial for Makhachev to overcome the challenge of Oliveira for the second time.

“This changes everything” – Fans fear for Charles Oliveira as Khabib Nurmagomedov joins as head coach for Islam Makhachev’s fight at UFC 294

Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev are best friends (Image via Instagram)

Retired lightweight champion and MMA legend Khabib Nurmagomedov has stepped back into a coaching role for Islam Makhachev. It was a surprising development leading up to UFC 294. Nurmagomedov is a longtime training partner and friend of Makhachev. The move has sent ripples through the MMA community.

Including the former champion has left fans excited and anxious about Makhachev’s championship clash against challenger Charles Oliveira. Makhachev is often touted as “Khabib’s protege” by the MMA media. He has had an impressive ascent in the UFC’s lightweight division. This drew frequent comparisons to Nurmagomedov’s own grappling-heavy, dominant style. Makhachev announced the inclusion of his friend on his Instagram with the caption, “The head coach join the training camp, nothing changed just sweating much more.” Sensing danger for Oliveira, one fan commented on the picture, “No, this changes everything. Khabib makes a huge difference.”

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Nurmagomedov’s strategic insights and unparalleled experience now in his corner benefit Makhachev. Moreover, many believe that Makhachev’s chances of defeating Oliveira have significantly increased with the introduction of Nurmagomedov. Furthermore, the fight at UFC 294 is a rematch of UFC 280, which saw the Russian becoming the undisputed UFC lightweight champion.

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Nurmagomedov’s presence is more than symbolic. It is also tactical. His undefeated career speaks volumes of his understanding of the sport. Given his past strategic victories and his close bond with Makhachev, many expect the duo to craft a game plan for UFC 294 similar to the one they used at UFC 280.

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Fans react to Khabib Nurmagomedov joining as head coach for Islam Makhachev for UFC 294

Makhachev’s fans are rejoicing at the union. However, Charles Oliveira‘s supporters are voicing their concerns. Oliveira claimed the lightweight title after a string of spectacular performances. The title fight was after fan-friendly matchups against Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje. The Brazilian will face Makhachev, one of the toughest challenges of his career, for the second time at UFC 294.

Islam Makhachev Charles Oliveira
Islam Makhachev, Charles Oliveira (Source: ESPN)

This title fight was already highly anticipated. Nurmagomedov’s inclusion has now gained an added layer of intrigue. Moreover, the MMA community is abuzz with predictions and analysis as fight night approaches. The fan reactions below Makhachev’s Instagram post are proof enough for that. Fans are overjoyed and predicting a victory for the Russians. Even notable names like Belal Muhammad and Steve Aoki commented on the post. See the fan reaction below.

UFC 294 promises to be a clash for the ages. High stakes, legendary figures, and the lightweight title set the stage for a monumental clash between the division’s premier fighters. Makhachev is the betting favorite, but Oliveria has the most finishes in the promotion. An added layer of intrigue is the fact that Justin Gaethje might be cage-side to watch the event to find his opponent.

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