Coach opens the game and describes areas in which Makhachev is better than Khabib

I. Makhachev (right) is named as a possible successor to K. Nurmagomedov (left). Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

The suspicion that Islam makhachev, a promising lightweight (up to 70,3 kg.) in the UFC, would be a superior athlete to the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov added another chapter. One of the main coaches of 'American kickboxing Academy' (AKA), Javier Mendes, opened the game and spoke about the subject. In an interview with 'Real Quick With Mike Swisck Podcast', the coach put an end to the questions and pointed out areas in which the 'Eagle' could be surpassed.

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“What Islam has that Khabib has never been so good at are the 'throws', judo, sweeps, leg attacks. I mean, Khabib has them, but not at the level of Islam at the moment. Suddenly, you're with Islam and the next thing you know, he's flying, literally,” Mendes said.

Responsible for the preparation of the two fighters, who, in addition to being teammates, are friends, Javier also pointed out the difference between Nurmagomedov and Makhachev. According to the coach, the distinction can be seen in the way the former Ultimate champion handles his commitments.

“Khabib is actually more 'evil'. When he controls you, it's like your whole body controls you. The legs, fingers, arms. Everything holds you back. One is more explosive, but the other (Islam) is a little smoother in transitions”, admitted the professor.

According to Mendes, Islam's qualities were essential to Khabib's success during his UFC days. Mendes said that the difficulties imposed by Makhachev in training allowed Nurmagomedov to advance, who was unbeatable as a professional in MMA.

“Khabib got better on his knees because he got tired of Islam beating him. That’s how good Makhachev is,” he concluded.

With Khabib retired since the end of 2020, Islam, today, is AKA's biggest bet in the UFC lightweight division. Currently, the fighter occupies fifth place in the category and dreams of a title shot in the near future.

Willing to occupy the position that once belonged to Khabib, Makhachev continues to collect victims in the octagon. This season, the Russian has two positive results; the last, about Thiago Moses, in July. Seeking the absolute top of the group led by Charles of the Bronx, the athlete has a fight scheduled with Rafael dos Anjos, on October 30th.