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“I’m Not Finished Yet”- Khabib Nurmagomedov Looking to Emulate Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson

Published 10/21/2020, 9:42 PM EDT

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The undisputed lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov spoke out to the media at the pre-fight press conference ahead of UFC 254. With the background of the Fight Island beach set, fight fans could feel the enormity of the main event clash. ‘The Eagle’ will put his gold strap on the line against Justin Gaethje, who is looking to unify his interim strap.

Nurmagomedov will chase his twenty-ninth professional win and has lofty legacy aspirations in mind. He’s already being looked at as one of the best fighters to step foot inside the cage. Furthermore, with a statement win over Justin Gaethje, there will be no denying his supremacy at lightweight. What’s more, the former WSOF champion in Gaethje is looked at as arguably his toughest test to date.

Khabib Nurmagomedov just wants to win his fights

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The 28-0 champion was asked to share his views on being enlisted into the same tier as boxing icons: Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson. Chiefly, Khabib has shared his admiration for the aforementioned legends frequently in the past and frankly chimed in on the comparison.

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He said, “Like Muhammad Ali, he’s on different level. Like Mike Tyson is almost same level but personality Muhammad Ali is like different level.”

“For me to become like this [chuckles] I don’t know. It’s very hard question. When I grow up I watch these guys, you know these guys greatest. I don’t know I can ever become close to these people, I didn’t have like this goal. I just wanna win every [one] of my fights. We’ll see in future cause I’m not finished yet everything what I’ve had.”

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Khabib’s drive to win and compete at the highest level is infectious and serves as an indicator of his success. Moreover, he’s delivered on his goals despite the fact that he’s competing in what fans see as the hardest division in the UFC. The lightweight division houses a murderous row of talent that extends far beyond the top 10 rankings.

Justin Gaethje is no exception, and he poses a significant threat to the champion given the stylistic attributes he brings. However, for the Dagestani fighter, the main event at UFC 254 is another day at the office.

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Written by:

Darryl Pinto

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Darryl Pinto is a senior MMA writer at EssentiallySports. He is currently pursuing his graduate degree in Mass Media (with a specialization in Journalism) out of Xavier’s College and has a year's experience in his current role. Darryl specializes in predictions, reporting, and covering UFC events live.
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