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#4. The absence of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov moving forward
How a fighter evolves depends on how he gets trained. Islam Makhachev is no different. Under Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Makhachev grew into a prolific grappler. The combat sambo coach was exceptional. Throughout his career, he trained many world champions. His son, Khabib Nurmagomedov, made MMA history.
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His coaching style was intense. The Dagestan national team coach demanded complete discipline.
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"In our gym in Dagestan under Abdulmanap's mentorship discipline was the number one priority." - Islam Mkhachev
However, his career was cut short in 2020. Abdulmanap passed away in July due to complications from Covid-19. 'The Eagle' no longer wanted to compete without his father. He retired after one last fight with Justin Gaethje.
Islam Makhachev trained under his longtime coach during his early UFC days. He is currently coached, primarily, by Javier Mendez, with Khabib as a mentor. He has already fought twice since the passing of Abdulmanap. If he does become a champion in the future, it'll be without Abdulmanap's assistance.
Khabib, on the other hand, was coached by his father for almost the entirety of his combat sports career.
#3. Islam Makhachev has a UFC champion in his corner.
Khabib Nurmagoedov made his UFC debut in 2012. He was more than a promising prospect. He then ran through every opponent in the lightweight division. After eight dominant performances, he became champion in 2018.
Along the way, he was trained by his father and Javier Mendez. He worked closely with Daniel Cormier at the American Kickboxing Academy. From a remote village in Dagestan to UFC champion, 'The Eagle' created a legacy. He was the vanguard who introduced the MMA world to combat sambo and the legendary toughness of Dagestani athletes.
Islam Makhachev stands on the foundation built by Nurmagomedov. The lightweight contender has the former UFC champion in his corner. Khabib's experience and knowledge have been key to Makhachev's success so far. Now that Nurmagomedov has retired, he is even more involved in training Makhachev.
'The Eagle' has faith that Islam Makhachev will soon become UFC lightweight champion.
