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#4. Khabib Nurmagomedov may want to prove he is the GOAT
When Khabib Nurmagomedov was active and dominating the lightweight division, there were many who felt he might be the greatest fighter of all time. Since his retirement, few seem to still feel this way for a variety of reasons.
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One of these is that many feel he retired too soon and doesn't have enough title defenses. Others have suggested that some of his wins haven't aged particularly well. However, another reason for this shifting perspective stands out above the rest: the success of Charles Oliveira. The Brazilian has looked just as dominant as 'The Eagle' and made Nurmagomedov seem less extraordinary.
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If Nurmagomedov is interested in being remembered as the greatest of all-time, it now seems as though he would have to return to the octagon. Should Charles Oliveira defeat Islam Makhachev next time out, he would be the only opponent that would make sense for the retired Hall-of-Famer.
#3. Khabib Nurmagomedov may want to cement his legacy
This point is similar to the last but, in truth, even with a win over Charles Oliveira, many would likely still question Khabib Nurmagomedov GOAT credentials. 'The Eagle' also doesn't appear to be the type of character who would be heartbroken to not be considered the greatest of all-time.
However, Nurmagomedov's legacy and being remembered as a champion does seem like it could be important to 'The Eagle'. If Charles Oliveira is able to defeat Islam Makhachev and potentially some other contenders too, most will conclude that he is is a superior fighter to Khabib.
That might not sit well with Nurmagomedov, given he is often considered among the best ever. He is unlikely to be okay with being remembered as the second-best of the past two lightweight champions, and for that reason, his return to the octagon seems entirely plausible.
