Islam Makhachev is on the cusp of profitable his 14th-straight battle within the Octagon, however does that imply he’s higher than his light-weight predecessor, Khabib Nurmagomedov?
In response to former UFC champion and present coloration commentator, Michael Bisping, Makhachev is already a “new and improved” model of “The Eagle.”
Makhachev, who defends his light-weight title for the third time towards Dustin Poirier tomorrow night time (Sat., June 1, 2024) at UFC 302 dwell on ESPN+ PPV from inside Prudential Heart in Newark, N.J., is already the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter on the planet. He has defeated the likes of Charles Oliveira, Alexander Volkanovski (twice), and Arman Tsarukyan, whereas going undefeated since a flash-knockout loss to Adriano Martins again in 2015.
Nonetheless, folks overlook simply how dominant Nurmagomedov was. The previous UFC light-weight champion produced a profession file of 29-0 (13-0 UFC) whereas handily defeating the likes of Poirier, Conor McGregor, Justin Gaethje, Edson Barboza, Rafael dos Anjos, and extra. Khabib’s resume appears to be a bit stronger than Makhachev’s, however what about their precise skillsets?
Bisping, who has been across the sport for fairly a while, believes Makhachev is a greater model of his long-time pal and coaching associate.
“Khabib got here first and he’ll all the time be remembered for that, for what he did to the game, how he represented Dagestan and applied that fashion and it took over the game, let’s be sincere,” mentioned Bisping throughout a latest breakdown on TNT Sports activities. “However his time has gone. It has previous, and also you by no means know. There’s rumors he may be coming again, however Islam is a brand new, improved model.”
“Take a look at the top kick knockout of Alexander Volkanovski,” he continued. “He’s a lot, a lot smoother on the toes. His grappling is simply nearly as good as Khabib’s or it’s definitely up there. It’s a dialogue.”
What say you, Maniacs? Is Makhachev already higher than Khabib or does he nonetheless have some work to do?
Hold forth!
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