Khabib Nurmagomedov Argues His Protégé Islam Makhachev Is the “Real Champion” After UFC Vegas Fight Night

Islam Makhachev did it again. The Russian-born combat Sambo fighter is inching closer towards a title shot at the moment. The 30-year-old prospect recently won his fight against Bobby Green via a first-round TKO. 

Looking at the flair that the Dagestanis have, it seems as though they were born to fight. This isn’t to be mistaken for a lack of hard work and relying on talent alone. With a great work ethic and steadfast preparation, Islam Makhachev is currently a true beacon of Dagestani fighters. 

Furthermore, Makhachev’s long-time friend, teammate, and his current coach, Khabib Nurmagomedov, exalts about him. In a post-fight interview with Megan Olivi, ‘The Eagle’ shared his thoughts on how he felt leading up to UFC Vegas 49.

Khabib Nurmagomedov believes Islam Makhachev harbors a mentality of a champion 

‘Champions are not born; they are made.’ More often than not, athletes grow into the championship mentality when they take the mantle. Only a few individuals are born with a champion’s psyche from the start. 

With no room for fear and doubt, Makhachev was ready for any fight, any day of the week. 

“Islam take this like uh real champion, you know? Like you say, doesn’t matter who is opponent, like goal is gonna be, is gonna stay like same, you know? Same goal, different opponent, you know?” Khabib stated. 

He further added, “And of course, we feel a little bit bad because he don’t fight with Beneil uh, he have big injury and end of the, he say he gonna come back when if he win one fight he’s gonna be next on the line you know?” 

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What’s next after UFC Vegas 49?

The UFC Vegas 49 main event ended up as most fight fans thought it would. Islam Makhachev with absolute domination of Bobby Green. Makhachev earned a first-round TKO after a vicious ground-and-pound on Green. 

Props to Green, though, for taking up a fight against Makhachev on ten days’ notice. Hard enough to do between unranked fighters and a lot harder with an opponent on his way to a title shot. 

With that being said though, Makhachev won the fight and is looking for a title shot. Moreover, ‘Team Khabib’ has been pushing the UFC to give Makachev a title shot, but not before his part is due, proving himself first. With his win over Bobby Green, Makachev is likely to be in talks for a title shot.

Do you agree with what Khabib Nurmagomedov had to say about Islam Makhachev? Were you impressed by Makhachev’s dominating performance at UFC Vegas 49?

WATCH THIS STORY – Event Recap: Best Fights From UFC Vegas 49: Islam Makhachev vs. Bobby Green