Arman Tsarukyan gives his take on whether Islam Makhachev or Khabib Nurmagomedov was the better fighter
Arman Tsarukyan believes there are a couple of key differences between Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov. Makhachev took over as the face of Dagestani MMA following Nurmagomedov’s retirement in 2020, following him not just in legacy but also as lightweight champion.
Photo by Cooper Neill/Zuffa LLC Arman Tsarukyan believes there are a couple of key differences between Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov. Makhachev took over as the face of Dagestani MMA following Nurmagomedov’s retirement in 2020, following him not just in legacy but also as lightweight champion. The rise of Makhachev, who has held titles in both the lightweight and welterweight divisions, has led to ongoing discussions about how he compares to Khabib.
Arman Tsarukyan Names Islam Makhachev Over Khabib Nurmagomedov in GOAT Debate Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC Makhachev put on a dominant performance against Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 last November, becoming the promotion’s eleventh double champion in the process. Nurmagomedov, on the other hand, never chased that kind of accolade. He spent his entire career competing in just one division before moving into coaching after retiring from fighting.
A lot of people feel that this has given Makhachev the edge over ‘The Eagle’ when it comes to overall résumé. Tsarukyan has also weighed in on the comparison, leaning towards his former opponent when discussing pure fighting ability. Speaking on Adin Ross’ Kick stream, Tsarukyan was asked who he would choose between two Russian stars at their peaks.
He replied: “Islam. ” “He is more well-rounded and he has Khabib in his corner,” Tsarukyan said of his former opponent before expressing interest in a rematch with the current welterweight champ. “I want to fight Islam again… 100 percent.