
At one point, UFC fans were eager to see a showdown between Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev, but that fight isn’t happening at the moment since Makhachev has moved up a weight class. Similarly, in the past, there was major excitement around a potential super fight between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Georges St-Pierre, but it never came to fruition due to weight-related issues. UFC veteran Chael Sonnen has explained that the weight factor played a key role in why the fight didn’t materialize.
Weight classes play a crucial role in combat sports, as fighters can’t perform at their best if they’re not comfortable at a certain weight. Chael Sonnen echoed this sentiment, suggesting that weight cutting is a major reason why fighters like Khabib, GSP, and others chose to retire. In a YouTube video, the UFC veteran stated:
“The only reason you didn’t get Khabib to 30-0 is you wanted to do it at 155 lbs. Khabib, GSP, and everyone else would have stuck around. All the guys you’ve ever seen retire would have done one more if you had let them go up in weight.”
Well, both legends are now retired, Khabib has transitioned into a coaching role, passing on his knowledge to the next generation of fighters. Meanwhile, fans continue to hold out hope for a super fight of this era, with the possibility of Makhachev vs.Topuria still capturing imaginations.
Aljamain Sterling Believes Islam Makhachev Has Surpassed Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Legacy

Aljamain Sterling has stirred debate by claiming Islam Makhachev has already surpassed Khabib Nurmagomedov’s legacy. While Khabib once famously said, “You come for money, I come for legacy,” Sterling believes Makhachev’s activity and resume speak louder. With more UFC fights than Khabib, more title defenses, and a potential second belt at welterweight on the line, Sterling said:
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“I think he’s surpassed Khabib. Just based on how active he’s been. Khabib had 13 fights. Islam is already past that. In my opinion, he’s surpassed him because of all the incredible guys he’s beaten to get to the belt. And the guys he’s beaten while holding it.”
🤔👀Aljamain Sterling believes Islam Makhachev already has better legacy than Khabib:
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) May 14, 2025
"I think he’s surpassed Khabib, just based on how active he’s been. Khabib had 13 fights — Islam is already past that.
In my opinion, he’s surpassed him because of all the incredible guys he’s… pic.twitter.com/5o1ZOMnr03
Sterling praised Makhachev’s dominant wins over Charles Oliveira and Dustin Poirier, calling them key highlights of his legacy. With Makhachev now eyeing a second title at 170 lbs, Sterling believes he’s only adding to an already impressive resume.
Also Read: Islam Makhachev Shares Funny Dagestan Travel Story, Avoids Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Plane Incident