Khabib Nurmagomedov Quits MMA: The MMA world faced surprising news this week as former UFC Lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov announced he was walking away from the sport. And while many have paid tribute to him or refuted the news, one current UFC fighter had a different view. Here’s what he said about Islam Makhachev’s chances against Alexander Volkanovski. For more combat sports news, Follow Insidesport.IN.
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Islam Makhachev is gearing up to face Featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284 in Australia. This will be his first title defense. However, the Russian was very confident of his chances. And while he will still be, the fact that Khabib is not in his corner will definitely play a role.
Khabib Nurmagomedov Quits MMA: Alexander Volkanovski Backed by 13th Ranked Lightweight to Beat Islam Makhachev
And current UFC number 13 ranked lightweight Renato Moicano has reacted to the news. The Brazilian took to Twitter to say, “Khabib done coaching ?! Why is that ?! Maybe volkanosvsky is winning that one!!!”
This comment from Moicano showed his opinions on Khabib’s coaching. Clearly, the Brazilian believed Khabib was the reason Makhachev beat his compatriot to win the UFC title. While Makhachev is yet to reply, we can expect the Russian to clap back at Moicano.
Khabib done coaching ?! Why is that ?! Maybe volkanosvsky is winning that one!!! #mma #ufc
— Renato Moicano UFC (@moicanoufc) January 9, 2023
Will Khabib Nurmagomedov’s absence affect Islam Makhachev against Alexander Volkanovski?
Despite Volkanovski being one weight class below Makhachev, it will still be a tough test for the Russian. Volkanovski is a well-rounded fighter who doesn’t quit. Therefore, having the experience of Khabib, who himself has fought fighters like Volkanovski, would have been invaluable.
And while Javier Mendez is one of the best coaches, the relationship between Khabib and Islam brought something more to the table. Moreover, Khabib also trained with his fighters. And sparring with a dominant former UFC champion like Khabib is something very difficult to replace.
Therefore, maybe Moicano has a point. Khabib Nurmagomedov quitting MMA might play a big role in the outcome of the blockbuster UFC 284 main event. However, some reports still suggest that all the news surrounding Khabib is false. Only time will tell the truth.
Do you think Islam Makhachev will miss Khabib Nurmagomedov in his corner for his bout against Alexander Volkanovski?
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