During UFC 284, did Islam Makhachev miss having the famous Khabib Nurmagomedov in his corner? Certainly, based on what the lightweight champion said during the news conference.
The Dagestani champion may be seen smilingly face time with “The Eagle” after winning in a recent tweet from the UFC.
The lightweight champion discussed what Nurmagomedov said to him on the call at a press conference at UFC 284. Apparently, Makhachev’s performance received some criticism from “The Eagle”:
“Because he was feeling so anxious, Khabib Nurmagomedov was asking, “Why are you doing this? Hey, if you had attended [to the event], if you had been in my camp, I could have done what Khabib suggested, but you didn’t.”
Nurmagomedov quit all aspects of MMA earlier in January, including coaching positions. ‘The Eagle’ has previously been a recurring figure in Makhachev’s corner during his matches.
Few MMA fans will ever forget the day Khabib patiently guided his friend through a kimura attempt against Dan Hooker.
Below, you can see Khabib Nurmagomedov helping Islam Makhachev through his kimura attempt.
Khabib Nurmagomedov expressed his joy with Makhachev’s victory over the Australian champion by saying:
“The very best I demonstrated it through a tough, competitive bout with the world’s best active fighter. Just think back to when you were asked to name the top Eurasia-based fighters in any weight division; there were only a few competitors, and Islam was already on the list. Brother, you are already in the past.”
Islam Makhachev open to a rematch against Charles Oliveira
Islam Makahchev, the lightweight champion at UFC 284, said he would be open to a rematch with previous champion Charles Oliveira in the future during the post-fight press conference.
The UFC is said to be planning a title eliminator between “Do Bronx” and Beneil Dariush, and according to Makahchev, he’ll gladly take on Oliveira if the organisation demands it following the Brazilian’s victory over Dariush:
“Charles will soon engage in a solid fight. If it has been announced, I’m not sure. I’ll be prepared if he defeats Beneil and the UFC decides not to stage this fight.”
