Why Does UFC Champ Islam Makhachev Not Have a Nickname?

Khabib Nurmagomedov wasn’t just known as ‘The Eagle’—he embodied it. The name wasn’t just a catchy tag, it reflected his essence. Born in the rugged, eagle-soaring mountains of Dagestan, his fighting style mirrored the bird’s sharp focus and strength. So, when fans think of the name Islam Makhachev, something feels off. Makhachev, unlike his mentor Khabib, lacks a moniker, a catchy phrase to sum up his greatness.

The UFC lightweight champion is carrying the torch of Dagestani dominance to even greater heights. But with no nickname and no tagline to add more allure to his persona. But does he need one? Javier Mendez, the founder of the American Kickboxing Academy, gave fans an insight into why Makhachev doesn’t rely on a nickname!

Coach reveals why Islam Makhachev doesn’t have a nickname

The first thing that strikes the fans’ minds is Islam Makhachev does not have a moniker. To add on top of that, the UFC lightweight champ does not even have a tagline. As if to save the MMA fans from further headaches, the founder of the American Kickboxing Academy, Javier Mendez, dropped the reason behind Makhachev cruising through the world of mixed martial arts without a nickname and tagline.

In an appearance on Ariel Helwani’s talk show, ‘The MMA Hour’, Mendez revealed that Makhachev was on a different path, even though many fans have speculated that he was Nurmagomedov’s second coming. Trying to create his own identity, Makhachev has given up on the idea of having a moniker. But it’s not like people haven’t tried to give him a nickname. Mendez recounted, “He doesn’t have a nickname and he never wanted a nickname. I tried to nickname him one time and Islam said, ‘No, coach, my name is Islam’ and I said OK.”

Mendez revealed that Makhachev never intended to copy Nurmagomedov from the very beginning. He didn’t even feel pressured to do so, as he was out to create his own identity. The coach claimed that Makhachev and Nurmagomedov were complete opposites. Talking about the champ’s interests and what he does outside the cage, Mendez revealed, “He doesn’ have great lines that he says. Islam is not out there doing what Khabib does. They’re complete opposites. Islam is an adventure type guy.”

Despite their differences, the MMA community has often considered the two alike. However, Dustin Poirier once compared Makhachev and Nurmagomedov.

The UFC LW Champ compared to Khabib Nurmagomedov by Dustin Poirier

UFC 302 was, in fact, not the first title shot for Poirier as he had also gone against Makhachev’s mentor and coach, Khabib Nurmagomedov. With his experience against ‘The Eagle’,’ The Diamond’ invoked a comparison between Nurmagomedov and his protege in an episode of ‘The MMA Hour’. He claimed that Makhachev’s submission game was more versatile than Nurmagomedov’s.

According to Poirier, Nurmagomedov had some chokes in his arsenal that he executed well. On the other hand, Makhachev often tries to put himself in positions that would let him execute stuff like armbars. He doesn’t care if he loses a position because he has immense faith in his wrestling prowess. Also, Makhachev’s striking game was better than that of his teammate. The same skills were fully on display as the lightweight champion submitted Poirier in the 5th round of their clash!

Now, at UFC 311, Islam Makhachev is poised on the cusp of surpassing ‘The Eagle’s legacy in the 155 lbs. division. Taking on Arman Tsarukyan in a highly anticipated rematch, this will be Makhachev’s 4th title defense in the promotion. And a win here could help him overtake Nurmagomedov’s record of 3 consecutive title defenses. So, could Makhachev’s silence in the nickname department be his most telling statement yet? Or will he choose to debut a new moniker after surpassing his mentor’s legacy? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!