MMA is often considered a sport fueled by aggression and anger, but there are exceptions. This is exemplified by Dagestani UFC fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev, who are renowned for maintaining a calm and collected demeanor in the octagon.

Further exemplifying this respect for opponents is UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev’s admiration for Dustin Poirier, especially considering Poirier’s recent retirement speculation. In the latest episode of UFC 302 training camp episode 2, which aired on Khabib Nurmagomedov’s YouTube channel, Makhachev spoke highly of Dustin Poirier, appreciating his contribution to the UFC and MMA world.

Makhachev backs poirier for UFC Hall of Fame

Number One ranked pound-for-pound fighter Islam Makhachev grew well under the wing of the late Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, who passed on his moral values and a rigorous training environment. This even includes respect for opponents, backed by the famous quote, “Your opponent is not your enemy.”

Therefore, to follow this up in the YouTube video, start the interview with Islam Makhachev by saying that he considers Dustin Poirier one of the legends of MMA and even bets that Poirier will make it into the UFC Hall of Fame. He said, “I am 100% sure he’ll make it into the UFC Hall of Fame. He’s gone through many tough fights, including the title fights, and has fought for the BMF title and the UFC title several times.”

Makhachev emphasizes that whether Poirier wins or loses, always presents a challenge to everyone, and he personally won’t underestimate the former interim lightweight champion in their upcoming UFC 302 fight. This is especially important because Poirier is coming off a win against Benoit Saint-Denis at UFC 299, while Makhachev is returning after a longer layoff since his victory over Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284.

However, Islam Makhachev’s backing of his opponent Dustin Poirier further demonstrates his respect for opponents. This is reflected in his resume with a stellar record of 25-1-0. Even Joe Rogan is a fan of these Dsgestani fighters, recently giving them a shout-out on his podcast.

Joe Rogan reveals the reason behind Dagestani fighter’s secret

In the UFC world, Dagestani fighters stand out from the crowd. Their records, like those of Umar Nurmagomedov, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Islam Makhachev, demonstrate some of the most successful and least controversial careers in sports.

In a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience podcast #156, Rogan and former UFC fighter Royce Gracie discussed countries known for producing great fighters. While Russia is often a contender in this conversation, Rogan specifically highlighted Dagestan, a region located within Russia, and its exceptional wrestlers.

According to Royce Gracie on the JRE, one reason Dagestan produces such exceptional wrestlers is the lack of distraction. “There’s no the girlfriend, or wife,” Rogan interrupted Gracie and said, “they don’t even party.” He emphasized their dedication by saying, “They just eat, sleep, and train” suggesting they prioritize training above all else.

In conclusion, Joe Rogan and Royce Gracie’s statements are strengthened by the explanation of why Dagestani fighters are exceptionally skilled. Recent news suggests a wave of fighters from Nurmagomedov’s homeland are entering the UFC  to prove themselves. It remains to be seen if they can all follow in Khabib Nurmagomedov’s footsteps.