Coach Explains Khabib’s Return to Islam Makhachev’s Corner at UFC 302 – “Never Said Never”

UFC 302 witnessed one of the sublime performances by Islam Makhachev after he defended his belt for the third time. Taking on an inform, Dustin Poirier, Makhachev held his nerve during the final rounds to clinch the victory. Not only the 32-year-old himself, but his coach Javier Mendez was also super happy to see his favorite prodigy come out on top.

Makhachev also had former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov in his corner this time. After missing his previous two fights, ‘The Eagle’ returned for his UFC 302 clash. But why exactly did he come back? Coach Mendez shared the details while speaking with ‘The Schmo’.

Coach Mendez claims he was happy seeing ‘The Eagle’ at UFC 302

Former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov ended his career with a perfect record of 29-0. Since then the former champion has taken Islam Makhachev under his wings. Known for his ridiculous work ethic, ‘The Eagle’ has helped Makhachev improve his game.

Nurmagomedov’s return at UFC 302 was a big boost for the Dagestani camp but Coach Mendez reckons he still needs some improvement. While speaking to ‘The Schmo’, Mendez revealed, “He (Khabib) needs some work on the cornering but he’s great at giving gameplan and he’s fantastic on game planning. We just need to work on that cornering just a little bit.”

Coach Mendez was also asked what prompted Nurmagomedov to return to UFC 302. Mendez took the opportunity to clear all such doubts and said, “Well, he did say for now I’m going to focus on my kids and he did do that. I always said he never said never. He just said for now and he just unloaded on me that day. I heard from somebody else and I went to talk to him. Hey, you’re working the corner. He goes yes coach. What do you think.? I said I think it’s great you know. I love you in the corner. I was very happy.”

Nurmagomedov shared his knowledge with Islam Makhachev, which was the deciding factor on the night. While he helped the 32-year-old defend his title successfully, it seems the fight brought some old memories to the Dagestani himself. After the UFC 302 event, he shared a message on Instagram that might surprise many.

Khabib Nurmagomedov shares unique message after UFC 302 clash

The retirement of ‘The Eagle’ is one of the biggest what-ifs in the history of MMA. Considered pre-mature by many, Nurmagomedov ended his career with a record of 29-0 and in his prime. Most MMA experts feel he still had plenty to offer to the sport. However, the sudden demise of his father forced him to retire from the sport as promised to his mother.

Nurmagomedov’s love for the sport is still intact and he is now passing the knowledge to the likes of Islam Makhachev and many. ‘The Eagle’ witnessed Makhachev put on a show for the fans and his performance might have just ignited his competitive spirit.

Normally the former champion is not very active on social media. However, he took the opportunity to pen down a message on his Instagram account after UFC 302. The post read, “Over time, the training schedule has changed, first I come and share knowledge, but in the end, I still want to compete with the young ones.”

The former champion has previously denied multiple opportunities to make a comeback and it might just stay like that. It seems he is focusing on coaching and looking to create the next generation of superstars.

How highly do you rate Khabib Nurmagomedov as a coach? Let us know in the comments below.