Daniel Cormier gives optimistic take on Khabib Nurmagomedov's absence from Islam Makhachev's corner

UFC Hall-of-Famer Daniel Cormier recently provided an upbeat assessment of Khabib Nurmagomedov's absence from Islam Makhachev's corner at UFC 284.

The former two-division UFC champion discussed his old AKA training partner Khabib Nurmagomedov's absence from Islam Makhachev's corner at the UFC 284 main event in Perth, Australia, on his weekly podcast DC and RC.

Cormier stated:

"I think Islam's come to terms with it. I haven't had an opportunity to ask him about it, but everything I see publicly, everything I see him say, uhh... tells me that he's come to terms with now I have to go and compete without my guy and although it sucks it does happen right."

Watch the whole conversation between DC and RC here:

Daniel Cormier's statement came after former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov announced his departure from MMA coaching to devote more time to his family.

Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov have a close relationship, both inside and outside the octagon. Makhachev considers Nurmagomedov a role model and has spoken publicly about his admiration for the former UFC champion.

The two fighters have a strong bond and have forged over many years of training and competition together. They are known to support each other during fights, with Nurmagomedov often serving as a cornerman for Makhachev and offering advice and encouragement. Since retiring from the sport, Nurmagomedov has taken on a mentor role for Makhachev.

However, it will be interesting to observe how the reigning lightweight champion performs in Nurmagomedov's absence in one of the most crucial matches of his career.

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Islam Makhachev predicts his future at welterweight

Islam Makhachev, the UFC lightweight champion, believes he has to improve before pursuing a second title.

Makhachev will be defending his title for the first time in the main event of UFC 284 on February 11th at the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia. He will face Alexander Volkanovski, the current featherweight champion.

During the UFC 284 pre-fight press conference, welterweight champion Leon Edwards was questioned about a previous sparring session with Makhachev at the AKA training facility, and 'Rocky' stated that he believes a future fight between him and Makhachev would be a good one.

However, Makhachev claims he has matters to attend to before pondering a step up to 170 pounds.

In an interview with RSports Russia, Makhachev stated:

"Let me tell you this: This topic is relevant. I like to compete. I like to fight strong fighters. I love big fights. Whoever is the welterweight champion, it’s going to be a huge fight. I’m very interested. But in 2023, there are worthy opponents in my division with whom I still have to meet."