MMA icon Khabib Nurmagomedov is considered to be probably the best lightweight contender of all time. Since his retirement, Islam Makhachev has been dominating the 155-pound class. The combat styles of both of them are quite similar. However, Daniel Cormier thinks Makhachev poses a greater danger than Khabib did.
In a recent episode of ‘Funky and the Champ’ on YouTube, Daniel Cormier appeared alongside Ben Askren. The two discussed the comparison between Khabib Nurmagomedov and his protege, Islam Makhachev.
Cormier dissected the skills of these Dagestani contenders, focusing on their ground control and striking abilities. Notably, Cormier emphasized Makhachev’s advantage in striking. He suggested that his proficiency in this aspect renders him more dangerous than Nurmagomedov in his prime.
He said: “Khabib – because of his strength and his control, he manipulated you on the ground. I think Makhachev possesses a lot of the same type of qualities – very similar when he gets you on the ground. But, because he’s a better striker, I feel he’s even more dangerous than Khabib was during his prime.”
During the discussion, Daniel Cormier recounted a conversation between Dana White and either Dustin Poirier or Conor McGregor. DC was unsure whether Poirier or Conor McGregor was involved. In any case, the contender who had just engaged in combat with Nurmagomedov claimed to be disappointed by how tightly Nurmagomedov held him. Despite this sentiment, Cormier asserted that Makhachev’s skill set surpasses that of Nurmagomedov.
Khabib Nurmagomedov retired in 2020 with an impeccable 29-0 MMA record. He then transitioned into a coaching role, guiding aspiring Dagestani competitors like Makhachev. Nurmagomedov aims for Makhachev to surpass his own achievements and establish an even more iconic legacy.
Islam Makhachev solidified his lightweight championship status with a decisive victory over Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 294. Following a controversial decision win in their previous encounter, Makhachev silenced doubts by delivering a first-round knockout. Impressed by Makhachev’s performance, Dana White lauded the champion’s potential to even outshine Nurmagomedov’s UFC tenure.