5 reasons why Islam Makhachev could go on to have a greater UFC career than Khabib Nurmagomedov

#2. He will have to face an elite grappler in Charles Oliveira to capture the title

One of the greatest points of contention detractors used to question Khabib's legacy is the lack of elite grapplers the undefeated Dagestani faced during his run.

Other than Rafael dos Anjos, Khabib did not face any elite grapplers or strong wrestlers. Islam, however, has already had to face Davi Ramos, a former ADCC world champion BJJ specialist.

In their bout, Islam Makhachev expertly held Ramos' head against the fence, breaking his posture and stopping him from attempting any sweeps and submissions.

If he repeats the success he experienced against Davi Ramos in a future title match-up with Charles Oliveira—the UFC's greatest submission artist—then Islam will have silenced any potential criticism of having not faced an elite grappler.

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#1. There is now greater fanfare surrounding Dagestani fighters

Khabib's inimitable success as a fighter has led to a surge in fan interest when it comes to fighters from Dagestan. Many seem to possess fearsome wrestling and Sambo skills which, along with their immutable mental fortitude and relentlessness, make them dominant at all levels of MMA.

With Khabib now retired, the UFC and fans alike are eager for another Dagestani phenom to build off of the excitement the former lightweight world champion generated.

With Khabib's name and legacy attached to him, Islam Makhachev is more well-known to casual fans than Khabib was prior to becoming a UFC champion, garnering a large following in Abu Dhabi.

Such interest at this stage of his career might allow Islam to potentially usurp Khabib's commercial success as a fighter, should he fulfill the destiny many believe he is primed to.