"He never copied him from the beginning"– Coach Javier Mendez details how Islam Makhachev made his own path, dismisses narrative of following in Khabib Nurmagomedov's footsteps

Islam Makhachev is set to take on Charles Oliveira for the lightweight title at UFC 280. The No.4-ranked lightweight has often drawn comparisons to his longtime friend and training partner, Khabib Nurmagomedov.

American Kickboxing Academy founder Javier Mendez disagrees with that narrative.

Islam Makhachev's success has led many to compare him to fellow Dagestani Khabib Nurmagomedov, who is often considered the greatest lightweight of all-time. Speaking with Ariel Helwani of The MMA Hour, Javier Mendez, who has coached both fighters, stated:

"He [Makhachev] never copied him [Nurmagomedov] from the beginning and he never felt pressure from the beginning. Islam was Islam right from the get go. He knew what he was going to do. He knew his path. He had an example in Khabib to follow, but he wasn't following in Khabib's footsteps. It was Islam's footsteps. It was his own identity."

Mendez elaborated by adding:

"Islam doesn't have taglines. He doesn't have great lines that he says. Islam is not out there doing what Khabib does. They're completely opposite. Islam's an adventure type guy...he loves horse riding, dirt riding, and things of that nature. They're completely different and Islam has been 100% comfortable with his role and he's never wanted to be Khabib."

While Makhachev and Nurmagomedov have often been compared, it is no surprise that Mendez, who has spent plenty of time with both fighters, has more insight. Makhachev will hope to further the comparisons to Khabib by defeating Oliveira at UFC 280 to become the lightweight champion.

Watch Javier Mendez's comments on Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov below (starting at the 1:03:51 mark):

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Islam Makhachev shares his thoughts on continuing Khabib Nurmagomedov's legacy

Islam Makhachev will have his hands full in his first lightweight title fight as he faces Charles Oliveira. Due to his relationship with Nurmagomedov, many have touted Makhachev to become the lightweight champion. Makhachev disagrees with the notion that he can further Khabib's legacy.

Speaking recently with Shakiel Mahjouri of SHAK MMA, Makhachev lauded his friend and stated:

"Khabib have his legacy...nobody beat this guy. He have good professional record and he beat many tough guys. He finishes professional career when he's in good shape. Nobody think his hype is gonna retire...that man he can beat everyone, he can defend this belt many times. He can make crazy, crazy money, but he don't need all these things."

Makhachev's comments reflect what many felt in the aftermath of Nurmagomedov's shocking retirement following his UFC 254 victory over Justin Gaethje. It is rare to see great athletes walk away in the prime of their careers, as he did. As Makhachev stated, however, regardless of the outcome of UFC 280, Nurmagomedov's legacy is secure.

Watch Islam Makhachev's comments on Khabib Nurmagomedov's legacy below (starting at the 9:42 mark):