UFC is home to some of the most iconic fighters in the history of MMA. Among these, Khabib Nurmagomedov stands out as one of the most dominant fighting forces when he was active. Now, his protege Islam Makhachev follows his footsteps from the rugged landscapes of Dagestan, Russia. The reigning lightweight champion successfully defended his title in a rematch against Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 294. Now, let’s explore in detail whether Islam Makhachev will be able to surpass Khabib Nurmagomedov’s legacy in the UFC.
UFC 294: Islam Makhachev vs Alexander Volkanovski
At UFC 294, Islam Makhachev’s rematch against Alexander Volkanovski was different from their first five-round classic. The lightweight champion emerged victorious thanks to a spectacular display of skill and power.
https://www.youtube.com/live/WSbPabFDJ6A?si=mbEh-35J2CZmAZ14
Islam knocked down Volkanovski in the first round with a head kick and then finished the fight with ground strikes. This marked his 13th consecutive win, tying him for the third-longest winning streak in UFC history.
This also happened to be Volkanovski’s worst finish since his early career days in 2013. The Australian fighter had stepped in for Charles Oliviera just 11 days before the fight, who withdrew due to injury. Regardless of the preparation time, Islam showed no mercy.
Khabib vs Islam – UFC Record Comparison
Islam’s resounding win over Volkanovski at UFC 294 cements him as one of the best fighters today. However, fans debate whether he could surpass his mentor and fellow Dagestani, Khabib Nurmagomedov’s UFC legacy.
Khabib giving Islam Makhachev advice over FaceTime after his win against Volk.
I love how these guys are always open to feedback. pic.twitter.com/4Ruqkegwkl— Bry The MMA Guy (@BryTheMMAguy) October 17, 2023
Khabib retired undefeated with a stunning 29-0-0 record and defended his UFC lightweight championship three times. He was also the longest-reigning UFC Lightweight Champion ever, winning against big names like Conor McGregor and Justin Gaethje.
On the other hand, Islam Makhachev now has an impressive 25-1-0 record and two successful title defenses after his win at UFC 294. While he may not be undefeated like his mentor, Islam exerts sheer dominance over all of his opponents in the ring.
Islam’s Professional Relationship with Khabib
Islam and Khabib’s bond goes beyond being from Dagestan and UFC. Khabib has followed his late father’s footsteps to shape Islam’s career by offering guidance from his experience in the Octagon.
Khabib’s influence is evident in Islam’s fighting style and training discipline. Islam has often expressed his respect and gratitude for the former UFC fighter. After his UFC 294 title defense, Khabib congratulated Islam and explained his absence from his corner on Instagram.
The retired legend spoke about the promise he made to his late father Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov who was also his mentor. He affirmed that he does not attend fights or serve as a cornerman anymore. He hopes that his fans will understand his decision.
Who is better: Khabib or Islam?
Back when Khabib was active, the raging debate on who was better was between him and Conor McGregor. However, the rivalry reached a definite conclusion when the Russian defeated the Irish legend, who is also not so active in MMA anymore.
Khabib and Islam react to the first Volkanovski fight. #UFC pic.twitter.com/wVaVTEXwRG
— MMA Bonehead (@MMAbonehead) October 17, 2023
However, when it comes to comparing Khabib and Islam, it’s a tricky situation especially since their fighting styles are similar and one of them has trained the other. Most importantly, it’s practically impossible for the two to meet in the ring, fight it out and let the fans decide.
While Islam’s record is great, Khabib’s impeccable undefeated run until his retirement was a streak of dominance that transcended the sport. His command over the game had his opponents trembling before they even faced him.
However, Islam Makhachev seems to be technically superior to Khabib Nurmagomedov. Even if he does not surpass his legacy in the UFC, Islam is surely his successor in terms of dominance. Who do you think is better: Khabib or Islam?
