Drew Dober Says Islam Makhachev’s Hype is All Because of Khabib Nurmagomedov

UFC lightweight, Drew Dober, spoke out to MMA Junkie regarding his UFC 259 assignment, wherein he fights Islam Makhachev. Dober who’s looking to break into the upper echelons had plenty to say about the highly touted prospect. Makhachev is looked at by many as a successor to Khabib Nurmagomedov’s lightweight throne in the very near future.

Moreover, several notable entities such as Daniel Cormier have come out and spoken very highly of Islam’s skills. Chiefly, inactivity has been the biggest burden that he’s been unable to overcome in the recent past.

Several prime opportunities have slipped through his fingers, including a main event spot against Rafael dos Anjos. Makhachev now has the unpleasant task of dismantling Dober, who is coming for his spot.

Also Read: Khabib Nurmagomedov Plans to Meet Dana White

Drew Dober goes after Islam Makhachev

The 23-9 fighter strongly believes that Makhachev is simply the product of hype generated via association to Khabib Nurmagomedov. Islam is riding a 6-fight win streak, but is yet to scalp a massive name on his resume. From Drew Dober’s point of view, ‘The Eagle’ is a major reason why Makhachev has an army standing behind him.

“I think a lot of the hype comes from when you have one of the greatest of all time Khabib talk so highly of you, plus Russian fans follow their athletes whole-heartedly. So I think a lot of his hype comes from Khabib and the fanbase and all that stuff and not really so much his accomplishments in the cage.

Honestly, that’s what I’m trying to test out, to kinda see if that hype is really all there and that kinda thing. I don’t really see the hype being warranted, but we’re here to find out Mar. 6.”

The impact of Islam Makhachev’s army

Dober also elaborated on what it’s like to be trolled by fans of a massively popular fighter. The fighter looks to make his way to the top and he’ll have to be prepared to encounter some contentious interactions.

“Of course, which I love,” Dober said on Makhachev’s fans dogging online. “Whether you want to see me win or you want to see me lose, you’re tuning into my fight, and performing martial arts in front of as many people as possible is my dream, so I absolutely adore it … Honestly I think I got more negative opinions when I was fighting Nasrat than I do with Islam, but man, it’s all the same to me.”

Drew Dober has a unique opportunity to enter the rankings and wipe some shine off Islam Makhachev. Regardless of his early career stardom, the Russian has shown varied skills that affirms his ability to become a champion.