Islam Makhachev emerged as the next big thing in Dagestan. After Khabib Nurmagomedov sent shockwaves through the UFC, it was Makhachev who carried forward the legacy. Training alongside Khabib himself, Makhachev has a lot in common with ‘The Eagle.’ However, the UFC lightweight champion also differs a lot from his idol. Some of those differences were pointed out recently by Makhachev’s coach, Javier Mendez.
Mendez appeared in a recent episode of the ‘Javier and Mo Show.’ Breaking down Makhachev’s characteristics that set him apart, Mendez stated that he was more adaptable than Nurmagomedov. While ‘The Eagle’ depended on relentless pressure and control over the top, Makhachev had the ability to make subtle changes in a short time.
“The thing about Islam like I’ve always said… He can change on a dime! Basically we can change him minute by minute, round by round, second by second. He’s that good. He can change and adapt… Khabib is 50/50 with me; Islam has always been 100% on point. He’s a great student, not just a good student. He’s a great student. He listens to all his coaches,” said Mendez.
Javier Mendez praises Islam for adapting to every instruction as a great student. 🏆🥋🧠
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) March 14, 2025
"The thing about Islam is that we can change him minute by minute, round by round, second by second. He's that good. He can change and adapt. Khabib is 50/50😅 with me; Islam has always been… pic.twitter.com/ztB7Rw0l2B
Well, Mendez might have a valid point here. Makhachev is now the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC due to his incredible fighting prowess. Meanwhile, echoing similar sentiments like Mendez, UFC journalist Mike Bohn hailed Makhachev.
Mike Bohn Cites Islam Makhachev As The Biggest Star
Veteran MMA journalist Mike Bohn seems to have been really impressed by Islam Makhachev. As the Dagestani has a dominant lightweight run, he is also eyeing the status of a double champion. And once he can successfully do that, Bohn thinks Makhachev will be the biggest star of Dana White’s company.
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In a recent interaction, Bohn stated, “You could make the argument he’s the biggest star in the UFC right now. His social media following definitely compares to anyone out there. It seems like the numbers when we put out interviews and media days resonate really, really well. If he can win the second belt, I think he’s the guy the UFC can anchor on.”
Veteran MMA journalist Mike Bohn 🏆🎤 believes Islam Makhachev might be the biggest star in the UFC right now ⭐🔥
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) March 13, 2025
"You could make the argument he's the biggest star in the UFC right now. His social media following definitely compares to anyone out there. It seems like the… pic.twitter.com/3lBdobwZ1g
Well, things are looking quite bright for Islam Makhachev at the moment. With the threat of Ilia Topuria coming up, it will be interesting to see how things pan out in the future.
