Nobody in the UFC community recognizes how big of a gem Khabib Nurmagomedov is more than Islam Makhachev. In a recent interview, Makhachev admitted to feeling the absence of ‘The Eagle’ in his fight against Alexander Volkanovski in the UFC 284 main event in Perth. The Russian won the fight via unanimous decision, but many thought Volkanovski had won. Perhaps, in the presence of ‘The Eagle’ the fight wouldn’t have been this close. 

In the aftermath of the fight, a video emerged of Khabib Nurmagomedov speaking to Makhachev on Facetime, revealing how concerned he was while watching the fight. The current lightweight champ, however, won in enemy territory, making his first title defense in style.

Despite his victory, Makhachev was accused of cheating by Dan Hooker, a fighter who once lost to him. Hooker claimed that Makhachev used IV rehydration before the fight, something which is illegal.

Islam Makhachev opens up about missing coach Khabib

In a recent interview, Makhachev reveals how much he misses Khabib Nurmagomedov. Additionally, he also reveals how big an influence he is and how his advice helps him turn things around in fights. The interviewer asked him about his first fight in the absence of the ‘Nurmagomedov family’. He wanted to understand how much did it affect Makhachev‘s preparation and performance.

Makhachev said, “100% I would give more, work somewhere more, because his tips are very important. How he is in fight, few people in this sport can suggest. And the absence of Khabib, I think, also played some role. It was already in many fights that he shouted out some kind of clue and I did and I won.”

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Islam Makhachev’s 3-Word Tweet Makes a Huge Statement on UFC Retirement

The current lightweight champ explained how not having the former UFC lightweight champion affected him greatly. Both the fighters grew up together and were training partners. Before Khabib, his dad Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov was the coach and trainer of Makhachev. Moreover, many times, Khabib has mentioned how Makhachev was his father’s favorite student.

It is important to notice that Nurmagomedov did not taste defeat even once during his illustrious career. Not only is he well respected by his peers, but also by his opponents. His legacy continues to live on with Makhachev‘s title run. Moreover, fans and fighters miss his presence around the octagon.

What do you think of Makhachev’s statement? Do you think that things would have turned out differently if ‘The Eagle’ was there? Let us know in the comments below.

Watch This Story: UFC 284: Fighters react to Volkanovski vs. Makhachev controversial decision