Khabib's historic rival says Islam Makhachev is 'better and faster' and has already surpassed his mentor in the UFC

I. Makhachev is considered by many to be the 'successor' of K. Nurmagomedov. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Rival of Khabib Nurmagomedov, Tony Ferguson has a controversial opinion: Islam makhachev has already surpassed his mentor. In an interview with journalist Helen Yee, the former UFC interim lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg) did not spare praise for the Russian, who gave up the division belt to fight for a new title in the welterweight (up to 77 kg) against Jack Della Maddalena.

“How many times has Makhachev defended his belt? Four! That’s a lot more than Khabib. He’s a better grappler, faster. He’s going to go up and add to his legacy. Khabib was more timid in the style that Makhachev presents,” said Ferguson.

See too

UFC Brazilian adopts theory about Jon Jones and teases plan against Aspinall: 'He'll force him to fight injured'

Fighting Nerds leader gives his opinion on the duel between Jean Silva and Diego Lopes in the UFC: 'Much more interesting'

Renato Moicano breaks the mood with Jean Silva and mocks fans for UFC fight: 'They want to kill me'

The statement is weighted by Ferguson's history with Khabib's team. His fight against the Russian, considered one of the biggest 'what ifs' in the UFC, carried expectations for years between two antagonistic grappling styles that were considered the best at the time.

After four successful defenses at lightweight, Islam announced his transition to challenge the champion Jack Della Maddalena. The rise to welterweight represents the search for an unprecedented feat even for Khabib: winning a second UFC belt.

Meanwhile, in the division up to 70,3 kg, Dana White's company has also already solved the problem. Charles of the Bronx welcomes Ilia Topuria and fights for the vacant belt. The fight takes place at UFC 317, scheduled for June 28th.