Khabib: "Makhachev will be the best lightweight in the world until 2025"

Former UFC Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov spoke about his friend's career prospects Islam Makhachev.

“This guy grew up before my eyes but for over 20 years. I have known him almost all my life. He has a champion mentality.

I often say that in this game there are fighters, there are champions and there is an elite. I sincerely believe that Islam will be an elite fighter because he can do everything: wrestling, punching and kicking and has grappling skills. I would say that he is already a representative of the next generation.

I think I was the best from 2015 to 2021. During this period, I could defeat anyone. From 2020 to 2024 or even 2025 Islam will be the best lightweight in the world if he stays active and avoids injury. I can feel it,” Khabib said on Full Send Podcast.

Recall that on February 26, at the UFC Fight Night 202 tournament, Makhachev will fight with Beneil Dariush.