5 current lightweights who could’ve beaten UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov

#2. Former UFC interim lightweight champion Tony Ferguson

The UFC's big money fight that never was.

Five times Dana White tried to get ‘El Cucuy’ in the ring with ‘The Eagle’ and five times it fell through. The most cursed match-up in UFC history could very well have become the 1 in 29-1 had it happened.

Tony Ferguson, despite never having held undisputed UFC lightweight gold, is one of the most fearsome fighters the division has ever seen. Explosive, volatile and unpredictable, his unique blend of boxing, Wing Chun and Muay Thai makes him a devastating striker.

To top off his multi-faceted punch and kick combinations, Ferguson is also an accomplished collegiate wrestler. Essentially, the eccentric Californian has often proven to be the total package in the octagon.

On the feet, Ferguson is a vastly superior striker to ’The Eagle’ and likely would’ve put Khabib’s underrated durability to the test. On the ground, like almost everyone, Ferguson would’ve been at a severe disadvantage. However, considering his impressive pound-for-pound strength and coordination, it’s plausible Ferguson would’ve resisted getting caught in any submission holds.

Overall, Tony Ferguson has proven to be one of the most dangerous lightweight fighters in recent years. Prior to his current three match skid, it’s likely a focused Ferguson could’ve secured the upset on ‘The Eagle’.

#1. UFC lightweight rising star Islam Makhachev

Is there any fighter who knows Khabib better?

The UFC lightweight division’s fastest rising star has been training with Khabib Nurmagomedov since they were kids. In 2021, the 29 year-old Makhachev is carving his way through the UFC lightweight field.

The former Combat Sambo world champion has proven to be so vicious and so dangerous with his grappling that most fighters are steering clear. Makhachev has lost just once in his career to Adriano Martins at UFC 192.

In the six years since his surprise KO loss, Makhachev has shown improvement in all areas. Now a force to be reckoned with in the UFC, there’s another obvious reason Makhachev would be such a challenge for ‘The Eagle’: they have the same fighting style.

Most of Nurmagomedov’s opponents struggled to make head or tail of his unique blend of wrestling and sambo. For Makhachev, he will have all bases covered given he has trained with ‘The Eagle’ for decades. Furthermore, Makhachev has not suffered the level of wear and tear Khabib did during his career.

If these two had crossed paths, it’s plausible Makhachev could’ve broken Khabib’s lengthy undefeated streak. After all, who would be better prepped for ‘The Eagle’ and his tricks than his childhood pal and training partner?