
via Getty
SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA – APRIL 18: Islam Makhachev of Russia interacts with the media during the UFC Fight Night Ultimate Media Day at Hotel Astoria on April 18, 2019 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

via Getty
SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA – APRIL 18: Islam Makhachev of Russia interacts with the media during the UFC Fight Night Ultimate Media Day at Hotel Astoria on April 18, 2019 in Saint Petersburg, Russia. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
Khabib Nurmagomedov, the former UFC lightweight champion has dominated the division during his time in the promotion. He is undefeated in his professional fighting career and has stopped many notable fighters.
Although Islam Makhachev has one setback on his UFC resume, he currently looks invincible in the division. He is undefeated since 2015 and is on an amazing ten-fight win streak of his UFC career. His run in the promotion looks similar to that of his long-time friend Khabib Nurmagomedov.
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Interestingly, both the fighters have trained under Khabib’s father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. However, after Khabib’s father passed away in 2020, ‘The Eagle’ took his torch and, after retiring from the sport, is training Makhachev for his career.
Both the Dagestani fighters have a similar fighting style. However, having competed in the same division, they have never clashed with each other inside the cage. But what if they actually fought?
While being asked about a potential fight for the title with Nurmagomedov, Makhachev shut the reporter with a savage answer. In one of his media appearances, Makhachev said, “If I need belt. I go Khabib’s home and take it.”
WATCH THIS STORY: Five Potential Opponents For Islam Makhachev After his TKO victory over Bobby Green at UFC Vegas 49
Although the Dagestan native has had an undefeated run in the promotion, he is yet to lay his hands on the lightweight gold. However, after his recent win, it seems Makhachev has cemented the opportunity.
Islam Makhachev says Dana White confirmed the title shot
Makhachev recently defeated Bobby Green in the main event of UFC Vegas 49. With this win, he has boosted his win streak to ten fights. Now the lightweight fighter wants a title shot next.
However, Justin Gaethje is already in the line. Although the fight is not official yet, ‘The Highlight’ standing number one in the contender race will most probably fight against Charles Oliveira for the gold strap.
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Hence, after this fight, Makhachev will fight for the title. In a post-fight interview with Megan Olivia, Makhachev said, “Dana just called Khabib and just said ‘he’s gonna fight for the title next.”
What are your thoughts on Makhachev’s cheeky answer? What do you think about his current run in the promotion? Let us know in the comments below.
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