What if we told you that the biggest lightweight showdown in UFC history might not feature two active champions facing off for the belt? Instead, it could involve a generational scrap between mentor and protege, Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov. You’re probably thinking, how could Khabib, a retired champion, take on Makhachev, the reigning king of the lightweight division? Well, hold onto your seats because there’s a twist. But can this prediction hold weight?
As UFC 311 is looming on the horizon, the hype around Makhachev’s title defense against Arman Tsarukyan is massive. But amid the noise, there’s still a lingering question that fans are asking, can Makhachev surpass his mentor? Is the protege truly ready to dethrone the master? Let us see what AI has to say!
AI predicts the winner of Islam Makhachev vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov
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Well, the AI believes that ‘The Eagle’ would win in this hypothetical battle. His protege is far from an easy opponent with fluid striking and his defensive wrestling is one of the best in the business. But here’s where the AI sees Khabib’s edge. While the current 155lbs phenom may snag an early round or two thanks to his striking and ability to fend off takedowns, as the fight progresses, the scales would tip in Khabib’s favor.
In the early exchanges, Makhachev’s composure and judo-based clinch game could pose problems for the Dagestani coach, giving Islam an upper hand in one or two rounds. But Khabib’s relentless pressure and ability to control the fight on the ground are where the real turning point comes. We all know Nurmagomedov’s cardio is something out of this world, and it’s this relentless energy that would start to wear Islam Makhachev down.
As the fight hits its later stages, Nurmagomedov’s knack for winning scrambles and maintaining top control would likely be the deciding factor. Makhachev, though no slouch, wouldn’t let his mentor dominate entirely, he’s too skilled and intelligent for that, but the constant pressure might simply be too much for him to handle.
The AI predicts that Khabib Nurmagomedov’s ability to control the pace and dictate the fight would likely earn him a unanimous decision. He’d wear Makhachev down with pressure, using his world-class grappling to dominate in the later rounds. Makhachev’s resilience and skill would keep the fight competitive, but Khabib’s cardio and ground control would likely earn him all three judges’ favor by the end of the bout.
This brings us to the big question, can Makhachev maintain his composure under Khabib’s unyielding onslaught, or does Khabib’s style of smothering pressure make him nearly impossible to beat? But what if Makhachev can’t get the job done? Who, then, could actually beat Khabib?
Who is Khabib Nurmagomedov’s kryptonite?
Surprisingly, the AI’s answer is none other than Georges St-Pierre. The reasons behind this are intriguing. First, GSP’s wrestling is nearly on par with Khabib’s, and in many ways, it may even be better. If you think back to GSP’s fights with the likes of Michael Bisping, Josh Koscheck, and Jonny Hendricks, his takedown defense was on another level, even against elite D1 wrestlers. The Dagestan leader might not have the same level of success when facing a fighter with GSP’s wrestling acumen.
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And then there’s the striking game. GSP’s technical striking, particularly his jab and kicks, would be an excellent tool for keeping Khabib at a distance. The AI predicts that the French-Canadian would use his superior striking to outpoint Nurmagomedov in the stand-up exchanges, while also neutralizing his takedown attempts. On top of that, GSP’s fight IQ is something else. The way he adapts mid-fight and executes flawless game plans makes him a nightmare for anyone. With his ability to avoid prolonged grappling exchanges and exploit Khabib’s striking vulnerabilities, the AI suggests that GSP would edge out a close unanimous decision victory.
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With UFC 311 just around the corner, the MMA world is buzzing with anticipation. But here’s the interesting wrinkle, Khabib will be right there in Makhachev’s corner. Although ‘The Eagle’ has retired from fighting, his mentorship of Makhachev has been crucial in the younger fighter’s rise to the top. But will Khabib’s influence be enough to carry Makhachev through the challenges that Arman Tsarukyan presents? Makhachev has proven time and again that he’s no flash in the pan.
And here’s a big question, does Makhachev need to break free from Khabib’s shadow to carve out his own legacy, or does the strength of their bond, like that of a coach and his star pupil, ensure Makhachev’s place in history? Will UFC 311 be the stage where Makhachev truly steps into his own, or will he forever be tied to Khabib’s greatness? What are your thoughts on the potential fight? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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Could Islam Makhachev ever surpass Khabib Nurmagomedov, or will he always be in his shadow?
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Could Islam Makhachev ever surpass Khabib Nurmagomedov, or will he always be in his shadow?
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