Comparisons between champions in UFC are inevitable, especially when one follows closely in the footsteps of another. However, former UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has made it clear that he has no interest in measuring his accomplishments against those of his mentor and brother, Khabib Nurmagomedov.
In a recent interview, Makhachev was asked about potentially achieving something Khabib never did—winning a second championship belt. Makhachev firmly shut down the conversation.
“This question is like some of them ask me, ‘You want to defend the belt more than Khabib?’ We never talk about this,” Makhachev stated. “For me, these are stupid questions because he’s my brother.”
The champion emphasized that their relationship transcends competitive comparisons, highlighting Khabib’s unwavering support despite personal sacrifices.
“He’s still like now two months without family. He supports all team,” Makhachev revealed, offering a glimpse into Khabib’s dedication as a coach and mentor since retiring from competition.
This sentiment comes as Makhachev prepares for a historic opportunity at UFC 322 in Madison Square Garden, where he’ll face Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight belt. A victory would make him the first competitor from Nurmagomedov’s team to become a UFC double champion.
What drives Khabib to continue investing in fighters like Makhachev goes beyond personal glory. According to Makhachev, Khabib once explained his motivation: “One day he told me, because why he did this—not just for one guy. If someone becomes champion, he changes life for many people, for his family, for his brother, sister, friends.”
“He told me it’s like a dream for me to help people,” Makhachev continued. “And what I can do? I’m not fighting, but I have to help people. When I help someone, it doesn’t mean I just help him. I can help his family, his friends, or people around him.”
The relationship between these two Dagestani stars represents something deeper than athletic achievement.
Khabib himself recently shared a heartfelt message: “So our whole lives went side by side in the hall, helping each other to become better and stronger. Soon we will follow the historic second belt, and in the meantime the work continues.”
As Makhachev prepares for what could be a career-defining moment, he remains focused on honoring their shared journey rather than surpassing his brother’s accomplishments.
