Why Islam Makhachev Is Simply More Skilled Than Khabib

In this video I discuss the ongoing debate amongst MMA fans regarding Islam Makhachev vs Khabib Nurmagomedov, and who the more skilled fighter is. I believe that Islam Makhachev is the more skilled fighter not only because of the greater depth of his skillset, but the level of competition that he's beating as well. What do you guys think? Let me know in the comments,
#islammakhachev #khabib
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[@ismailb4334]

Khabib himself said Islam was Abdulmanap's favorite student. Abdulmanap invested in Khabib because he was his son. But he invested in Islam because he saw the potential.

[@RandomShowerThoughts]

Facts. I just wish Abdulmanap could see Islam right now

[@adamburling9551]

His father isn't going to favor him. Come on and get with it. Lol. They don't praise the in that culture. He invested more time in him not only because it was his son but because Khabib embodied what his father wanted. He told him he doesn't think anyone can stop him, short of being knocked out.

[@robertomugabe11]

Islam's goal is not to be compared with khabib or surpass khabib...his goal was to become the champ and p4p number 1 fighter and send volcanoskating's ass back to the m!dget division. which he already did. so nothing else matters. keep crying and keep coping volcankskating and oliviera fanboys.

[@JoshuaDuncan-jz4ls]

@@RandomShowerThoughtshe’s watching from above 👆 rest in peace

[@Sai_Saracen]

Islam has more tools and technically more polished and talented than Khabib.. lets not forget that Kahbib retired as he was getting better .. that submission on Gaethje was pure ART.. Nonetheless what makes Khabib superior to Islam is the mentality which is UNMATCHED by anyone in MMA history.. and that's what makes him the greatest combat sport fighter.. … never lost a fight .. hardly lost a round .. never got cut.. no steroids.. just pure and utter domination and made every opponent look like they dont belong in that ring

[@josegarza7719]

I agree that Islam technically is more complete than khabib in terms of skills BUT khabib didn’t need striking or kicks. Khabib was that special of a fighter Lucas. I like to say “In a sport of blood we witnessed a man who never bled.” That’s how special khabib was. His fight iq was insane too. The best imho.

[@larrydalobster3548]

He didn’t need striking or kicks because nobody could challenge him on the ground, now where the division is starting to gain all of these good submission artists and grapplers in Olivera, Beniel, Gamrot, Arman, or even Micheal Chandler.. Khabib retires? Which really sucks and when he does Khabib.. he misses weight(Tony Ferguson)

[@bornmenu]

Makhachev is just a glimpse of the type of fighters we are going to see 10-20 years from now. They're probably going to be better, since mma is relatively a new sport we are getting guys who are transitioning to the sport from a singular sport whether it be wrestling, jiu jitsu or kickboxing, or they just start training mma in their early or late 20s. However with islam and khabib, they've been training in combat sambo since they were kids, it's the closest martial art to mma since it combines striking, wresting and submissions. As mma gets bigger we are going to start seeing kids training at local gyms which will lead to an immense amount of experience in every area that most people won't be able catch up with if they start later. The skill set of fighters are just going to keep getting better and better.

[@KRATOS825]

I think Usman Nurmagomedov is a present example of future generation fighters .He is just 25 and already the Bellator LW champion. He has great striking and great grappling.

[@ryokimura523]

Not really. GSP was years ago but he's still better than WW today

[@bornmenu]

@@ryokimura523 i think gsp would have a couple losses in todays ww division

[@ryokimura523]

@@bornmenu GSP in his days have couple of losses too. But looking based on the skills GSP is still more skilled than WW today. Colby Covington being at the top of WW is embarrasing

[@coreymcnulty5125]

islams kicks are so nasty he dosent even need to takedown gaethje or charles to beat them

[@notoftentold4076]

But why not take the easiest road.. He can submit both

[@Phonoodles408]

@@notoftentold4076the easy road is boring to fans tbh

[@notoftentold4076]

Only if you a casual. The ground game is for the real ones@@Phonoodles408

[@twotomato]

​@@notoftentold4076he cant submit charles in ground without his striking

[@donix5604]

@@Phonoodles408 bro the easy road is to take time a double on gaethje kick in the first then sub him and for Charles to rock him then sub him on the ground lol ,ain't no way you can call islam boring his title reign has been super entertaining so far

[@reemraw9956]

“No one can beat Khabib in the cage, not even me.” - Islam Makhachev

[@lucastracymma8764]

Said by Makhachev years ago before he was in his prime while also being respectful because he’s khabib’s good friend and training partner

[@versacethegreat9356]

Khabib losing in 3 rounds

[@kannonknight8755]

@@lucastracymma8764cope buddy he said it

[@johnoliver3056]

Islam owes khabib a lot so would never ever say he could beat khabib, khabib's father made islam what he is so it would not be good if he said that.

[@adamquinn9659]

@@lucastracymma8764I get your point but FWIW Islam said he’s only ever won one round on khabib in sparring. I do somewhat agree though

[@kingkoopa2247]

Bro been watching MMA for 2 years.

[@opietaylor5778]

To khabibs defense on the Al fight… khabib was clearly destroying him… and stopped killing him and only boxed Al and still beat him every round. Cause even in the later round when khabib really wanted to take Al down he did and continued to maul him. Don’t buy into the talk of he couldn’t take Al down cause that’s just not true at all.

[@jouganagario5967]

🐐

[@dennishan9588]

its flattering but no one is undefeatable.

[@redaoulias2071]

I don't think is that simple! Islam may be better skills wise but there is something different about khabib, his mindset, he's a leader since he was a child being abdulmanap son thats make you not only a disciplined person since a young age but a model for others, it will shift your identity young, what i want to say is as a fighter khabib is ready to die in the cage and won't support the shame of a loss because of who he is and what he represents for his people and thats mindset with his faith it's like a superpower, Let alone his cardio and IQ.

[@N.M.T.K]

Khabib: Grappler, Ground & Pound, Choke submission. Islam: Grappler, Striker, Choke submission.

[@Izzy-zh8ck]

No question Islam is more skilled than khabib but khabib would still win in a fight. Khabib is still beating Islam when they spar. Islam would spank colby

[@raypen4202]

Khabib Takes Dangerous Punch,Kick And Khabib Doesn't Feel Pain He seems to be Normal But Islam Doesn't ♥️

[@taylorskidmore2760]

Khabib is a better grappler, Islam is a better striker. It's so close though

[@thegoat5587]

There is nobody in ufc's lightweight history that can beat Khabib Nurmagomedov, even though most of them are more well rounded or skillful than him.

[@ricardojornada]

Khabib = Better Grappler Islam = Better Striker Islam is more well rounded though Khabib had better cardio, a better chin and seemingly stronger. Which is better? Up for you to decide, quite subjective but they're both elite. PS: One thing to consider is that Khabib never got KO'ed so he never had to adapt /improve on his formula and sometimes losses do improve fighters (just look at GSP).

[@sssmeee]

fact of the matter is, khabib never really got tested or pushed, so he did what he always did

[@albertoamoruso7711]

Reasons I believe Khabib is (at the moment) still better than Islam: 1 - he had better jujitsu (his neck crank actually worked) 2 - he had better fight IQ (even his coach admits that) 3 - he had tougher chin (probably top 5 chins ever) 4 - employed terrific G&P

[@tauseefmohmmed5447]

There is only one khabib in domination

[@linusolsson5173]

I love those Dagestan fighters. Khabib was the first fighter that i really started to like. So now ofc i root for Islam. I think Islam is a way better striker. But i still feel like Khabib could beat Islam. We will never find out and I don’t really want to because i just want to see Islam be great and hopefully gets set higher than Khabib

[@booprice5473]

What are we arguing here, Islam is more skillful than Khabib? Or Islam would be prime Khabib. Very different questions/answers.

[@hska7]

The guy has no idea what he's talking about. He started watching mma like a year ago. So he never got to see Khabib in his prime. He even said Anderson silva is the most overrated fighter in history lmao 🤡

[@ASthe5th]

The only thing unlikable about Islam is him not fighting 3 time a year. He could have fought in july or august. Like Volk did. This may be cause of the weight cut. Thats why Colby is so anoying. He refuses to fight even tho he could 3-4 times a year. He could have fought a minimum 3 times since his last fight. Also i dont wanna Charles lose again so Islam should fight Justin instead. Charles should fight Gamrot.

[@FreshFowkz]

Islam is the true heir of Abdulmanap's (Khabib's father) legacy, he was his favorite student. Only Demetrious Johnson is as as complete as Makachev, no ufc fighter comes close

[@bishalshrestha2379]

I agreed with you Bruh. Khabib is legend but Islam is better version of khabib. They both are great in their own. They have similar nature which has been taught by khabibs father.

[@Couch0C]

This is the casuals argument to 'Islam > Khabib' All you have to say is "The grappling is almost equal and Islam better striker so Islam better!", it's never that simple lmao.

[@djm24able]

Why is that Luke??? Why do people have such a hard time admitting Islam is one of the most deadly strikers in the game right now? Like I don’t get it, is it just straight cope because when they admit that they completely submit their ability to say “just wait till he faces a good striker” like bro I wouldn’t want him to to avoid brain trauma but I seriously think he could finish Justin G in a five round five on the feet alone. I know that’s a lot but I think he could do it. Islam is not that old either. He could do these for years to come. Another four no prob. Btw, he kills Khabib at this point in his career and Khabib in his absolute prime. 😮 Islam is just built fucking different my people. Can’t wait to watch him beat who ever is next. Hope it isn’t Charles, Charles doesn’t have a chance in hell and what makes it worse is I think Charles thinks that as well. Let’s mix it up and give Islam someone fresh that he hasn’t seen. Can’t wait either way! man I love this sport so much.

[@jaydandy1917]

In the words of Islam himself in earnest during a post fight press conference as champ, "no one can stop Khabib in the cage...not even me." Islam is the anti-Khabib. Khabib was his main training partner, and his style shows how he was molded by this. Brilliant counter striker, phenomenal anti-grappler, ferocious in clinch, and very comfortable being pushed into the cage. His game was shaped around Khabib's strengths - diffusing pressure and athletic physicality. Khabib was a force and Islam's game is crafted to contain it...manage it would be more accurate.

[@sk8l8now]

Really nice take, hadn't thought about it in that way.

[@traiwitz2736]

this is brilliant

[@saifaldin_]

Interesting take.. you can also notice that although they both were trained with the same foundation, their games evolved to better suit their strengths (and weaknesses) and to a certain extend, their personalities as well. Makhachev’s fights when he was younger was very similar to Khabib’s, at least in terms of grappling techniques. Along the years, he ditched some techniques in favour of others to better suit his physique (longer limbs and different build), taking advantage of his creativity, and managing his stamina better.

[@_munkykok_]

Superwell said! 👍👍 #ProperTake

[@0sman]

best take ive seen on yt

[@crazydave1689]

I mean they both are high level grapplers, but one also has high level striking. It just makes sense to consider Islam better

[@aaronmarchand999]

And yet apparently khabib dominates Islam in the gym (for the most part). I don't think khabib would have had the same difficulty that Islam did in the first fight against Alex, would have taken him down and controlled him. Islam is more well rounded, better at striking, but that doesn't mean he's better

[@billyhangman8188]

Y'all are making it too simple... The Cadio, power, strength and chin should also be factored in

[@notoftentold4076]

Khabib is still the most dominant champion there ever was. No one else went through so many without even bleeding

[@change4better326]

I bet khabib outgrapples islam

[@blackflag6976]

No, Khabib has a far better chin and cardio. He took clean hits from Gaethje, poirier, conor, barboza and didnt even flinch. Never bled or dropped.

[@nestorjed]

Being Knocked out it was the best thing it could happened to Mackhachev, since that fight he became a defensive monster in striking

[@goofygoof212]

Yeah but volk vs gaethje next week please volk tryna stay active bro

[@realinus]

You know who didn't get Knocked out? Khabib.

[@spencere821]

@@realinusthat doesn’t fucking matter, sounds like you’ve never trained or competed a day in your life if you think one loss means anything compared to the lessons a loss will teach you

[@jnure9]

@@realinus😂

[@user-vt3vo1yd3v]

@@realinusSo? Who gives a shit? Islam is clearly a better all around fighter, and he will shortly tie khabib title defenses, and pass it easily. Khabib pulled out of more fights than he had title fights. He’s a weak beta male.

[@ilyasf7313]

There could be an argument that Khabib's defence is better than Islams. He has never got knockdown, never bled or got cut. Just because Khabib's defence isn't pretty, doesn't mean it isn't efficient. Poirier himself on JRE podcast said that Khabib is hard to hit clean because of his awkward head movement. And Khabib has fought the more dangerous strikers like Gathje, Poirier, Mcgregor and Barbosa.

[@notoftentold4076]

In the end, Islam and Khabib is just better than the rest.

[@TB-wi5dn]

Oliveira is the most dangerous striker in the lightweight division not named makhachev, and Volkanovski is top 3 most dangerous strikers in the ufc

[@guwopzy]

@@TB-wi5dnSeconding this, Charles and Volk better strikers than everyone he listed / khabib faced

[@zypher9959]

Dustin and justim have both hit khabib with some clean shots, he was abke to take it bcoz of his chin not bcoz of his defence, khabib striking defence and offence is levels below islam, he just used his wrestling, nothing special, you people dride him so much but thats expected from a guy that has never ever trained for once in their life.

[@grump9283]

​@@guwopzyOlivera isn't a better striker than Dustin or Justin😂 cmon now. Volk is maybe better however.

[@tattiman]

Fun Fact : according to Javier Mendez, Khabib rarely trained his striking. Like deliberately, Khabib didnt care as much for his striking game as he did his Grappling game. What seperates Khabib is the Mental game.

[@ghoul5371]

You can tell honestly like he has a few kicks but otherwise it’s just fundamentals. His hand striking was so by-the-book

[@kennwin]

It's cause hitting people in the face is considered haram in Muslim. He always felt guilty for it. Someone asked him once and he didn't know how to answer. He acknowledged he was being haram but at least he tried to rely on his grappling first.

[@KaxMisha]

The mental game and the sheer physicality.

[@AlphaQHard]

@@kennwin Sounds like a convenient excuse.

[@Janintong]

Khabib to Cejudo: "why close distance, you olympic champion"😂😂

[@arsalanahmed2435]

I know this is gonna sound corny and Cliche, but Islam doesn’t have that “dog” in him that Khabib did. The relentless chain wrestling + ground and pound isn’t there. The chin on Khabib is also undefeated. All I’m gonna say is Islam is a lot more technically smooth and well rounded.

[@ge7581]

Yup. Islams striking and grappling is both great, but khabibs confidence and heart in the ring is probably the best we`ve ever seen.

[@tattiman]

Exactly!!

[@bobjimbobjim9006]

Islam does have that dog in him, it’s easy to say khabib had that dog in him when we never even saw him struggle with someone who had the same skills as him

[@everydaffodil5344]

It’s true. Khabib’s raw aggression coupled with his grappling skills made him the best fighter the world has ever seen.

[@capalottyslimalini2878]

Islam fights safer because he got KO’d before and his chin isn’t has strong as Khabib

[@Dahn.Baern.]

Some things to consider: Khabib was never dropped once his entire career. Khabib was never cut or even bruised in his entire career. Khabib holds the record for 10-8 rounds. This is an interesting conversation without a clear, definitive answer. You make a great case for Islam. I’ll still give it to Khabib, for now, just on those facts alone. He was that dominant with McGregor, dustin, Conor, Barboza, etc. Khabib never had to be a great striker.

[@thorn3802]

So Islam IS better? Thxs for basically saying that while wasting time. Islam would destroy all those guys. Shhh

[@DADRB0B55]

This isn't a play game of wrestling or boxing. You need good striking to be a real mma GOAT, against the terrible competition khabib has fought in comparison Islam 1 fluke loss doesn't matter nor does losing rnds to fighter far better than RDA which is the best opponent khabib has ever fought.

[@aleksandarknezevic8694]

Khabib dominated strikers with no ground game. Islam fought Olivera who finished khabibs best opponents and Volkanovski who is even better than him. Khabib couldnt get a finish and wasnt as near as dominant when he fought guys with wrestling background like Tibau 24 h short notice alquinta. Volk would have much easyer time with Khabib than aginst Islam. Khabib couldnt give him as near tough time on feet like Islam did and he could be more focused on his takedown defance and even might beat him. But in an case or univers Khabib cant finish Volk ever. He doesnt have submisions like Islam or knockout power.

[@noelloh561]

He literally just said he'll give it to khabib. Learn to read if you don't want to waste your time. Shhhhh @@thorn3802

[@sunnyday3971]

Khabib dealt with rda, who is high level grappler and wrestler and jiu-jitsu, Conors defense is under rated

[@kingspart9828]

Problem is if Khabib fought Volk you would be saying it was an easy stylistic matchup

[@notoftentold4076]

Yeah, they all said they had found the answer to Khabib until they went to the cage.. Then it was another story. :D Khabib and Islam is better than the rest. Thats for sure

[@cltv5407]

Khabib's ground control and cardio is way better than Islam so Khabib would maul Volk

[@solus47]

I mean it kind of is..... No matchup was too overwhelming for khabib. Even if he wasn't a massive favourite, he at least made it close by virtue of being Khabib

[@frazy4487]

The scary thing is Makhachev is being compared to khabib, and he is just getting started. Still has around 5 years in him, and if he stays champion, or becomes double champ. this resume could be legendary

[@saifaldin_]

If you’re talking about techniques… yes, Makhachev is the more diverse and polished out of the two. But if they fight, Khabib will almost always win. Khabib is stronger, more relentless, way better stamina, more durable against hits.. and most importantly, he’s smarter and mentally resilient. In terms of career resume, Makhachev can definitely surpass Khabib soon..

[@1999_reborn]

mma math

[@celciul98]

Well said

[@Chille10]

Lol..khabib stronger than islam😂😂 that's not what javier says and definitely not what I've seen

[@Top_E_Official]

​@Chille10 Khabib is like 200 lb currently, so he is definitely way stronger than Islam.

[@Hidden-truth-revealed]

fight iq of Khabib is unmatched

[@account-pb2df]

DJ and Jones disagree 😂

[@samrastagar8554]

@@account-pb2df DJ sure but if Jones had Elite fight IQ he wouldn’t beat his wife 😅

[@JustChill-zd4ib]

@@samrastagar8554 No actually he would. Fight IQ means you are dominating in the fight. And he dominated her lol.

[@samrastagar8554]

@@JustChill-zd4ib The joke flew over your head lol. Fight IQ is not about “dominating” a fight it’s more so being smart in a fight and knowing what to do at the right time.

[@capalottyslimalini2878]

IQ in wrestling only. Islam is more all around better

[@ΔΗΜΗΤΡΗΣΠΑΣΧΑΛΙΔΗΣ-δ6ν]

'nobody could stop khabib inside the cage not even me' Islam said in interview after he took the belt.

[@Eagle20mids]

Ya bro he gonna glaze khabib that’s the Muslim respectful culture there’s a video of all the dagestani guys saying someone’s else in there friend group is better than them it’s the culture Islam could ko Jon Jones and Francis with a back flip kick at same time and he would still say khabib is better than him

[@twotomato]

​@@Eagle20mids😂😂 lowkey true, bro could 1v3 jones, gsp and silva, beat all of them by ko with 1 punch and would still say khabib or some other random russian fighter is better, culture

[@sagivijayaramaraju1153]

He was being kind

[@ΔΗΜΗΤΡΗΣΠΑΣΧΑΛΙΔΗΣ-δ6ν]

@@sagivijayaramaraju1153 "Islam took some rounds against khabib never a whole match they played more than 1000 mma rounds" Javier Mendez their coach, are we ok now?

[@FinnMMA]

sure they say that doesnt mean its true lol

[@ferrarifxx08]

‘No one can stop Khabib in the cage, even me’ - Islam Makhachev

[@lukeinvictus]

of course hes gonna say that lol khabib is his mentor

[@user-vt3vo1yd3v]

Khabib may be a better pure wrestler, but Islam is 100% a better all around fighter, and he will surpass khabib on resume. Islam will most likely become a double champ, he will 100% pass khabibs title defenses.

[@SublineYT]

Islam is so well rounded, definitely gonna be considered an all time great soon.

[@muhammadzariff7075]

Future contender for GOAT, for sure!

[@jeffrey9247]

Pretty hard to beat GSP and Jon Jones on the p4p, but I think Islam is definitely the right person to do it

[@like2jo4796]

​@jeffrey9247 pretty easy to beat Jones in that debate coz I never saw Makhachev eyepoking and cheating inside the cage and also Islam got Title shot after 11 W streak in UFC and both Jones and GSP got Title shot before 5 fights in Ufc 😂

[@SublineYT]

@@like2jo4796 Becoming champ at such a young age comes with greater challenges than working your way to champ tbf, they were fighting the best since they were 23/24, their records were already legendary by the time they were Islam's age.

[@like2jo4796]

@SublineYT yh because that's wt I said they got Title shot early failed multiple drug tests u will never have a comeback for his eyepokes and not getting disqualified 🔥

[@Soldierofgod96]

Grappling: Khabib Striking: Islam

[@marcusht7352]

Grappling: Khabib > Islam Striking: Khabib

[@samrastagar8554]

@@marcusht7352True but cardio and chin also go to Khabib

[@aaronnordstrom788]

​@@samrastagar8554cardio is debatable and chin is also debatable. The same volk who battered granite chin Max couldn't hurt Islam on the feet

[@samrastagar8554]

@@aaronnordstrom788 Lol It’s not even debatable Khabib has never been dropped nor has he been knocked out. Islam has a strong chin but Khabib’s is just better. Also, pressure and cardio go to Khabib but it’s close.

[@aaronnordstrom788]

@@samrastagar8554 Islam's resume is already better and he's already proven more. Charles and Volk are calibers above Conor, Justin, and Dustin. By the end of both careers though, it'll be pretty damn clear whos better

[@grump9283]

He may be a better well rounded Fighter by FAR, but I strongly believe if they ever fought then khabib will win 9/10times

[@jocoolshow]

Khabib’s grappling offense wasn’t so much above Islam that he’d be able to maul current Islam like he could everyone else, but Islam’s striking is levels ahead of what Khabib’s striking was. Unless you think Khabib’s grappling is so much better than Islam’s that he could take him down and control or finish him in the ground, their grappling most likely cancels out and it becomes a standup fight in which Islam should win

[@hayatiiiii]

Not 9 outta 10 times. I'd say 6 outta 10

[@nightwatch888]

Naaah, Islam has more than enough wrestling skills to keep this a striking battle, and in striking he beats Khabib 10/10 times (maybe 9/10 but still)

[@ge7581]

@@nightwatch888 Khabib would find a way to take islam to the ground fast. Its not that these guys are impossible to take down its that nobody wants to try because theyre so good on the ground.

[@nightwatch888]

@@ge7581 even if he would, Islam would find a way to stand up quickly

[@RogerHaeske]

What you failed to mention is that in practice sparring no one could ever beat Khabib a single round. That is including Islam. Though he got the closest. Javier Mendez has said this multiple times. It doesn't matter your overall skillset but who would actually win in a fight against each other. Coach Mendez did say that Islam was the most overall skilled fighter in the history of the Lightweight division. But he did not say that Islam was the best fighter. There is also something to be said by the incredible champion mindset that Khabib had. I love Islam and he is absolutely amazing. His overall skills are off the charts incredible. And his skill set is definitely wider than Khabib's. But would he have beaten Khabib? That is doubtful.

[@milchsauger]

Corection: Javier said khabib lost some rounds in sparring and only to Islam. But khabib never lost a single sparring session against any human during his time in AKA

[@Realivangarcia]

You should see the latest training videos of Khabib and Islam. Islam has already surpassed Khabib as he was seen rag dolling Khabib in the training sessions. Khabib himself and his father Abdulmanap have said Islam was going to be the best 155 fighter of all time. I guess it’s a prediction that came true because it just happened. Islam will beat everyone at 155 and his only possible adversity will be at 170.

[@RogerHaeske]

@@milchsauger Yes I believe that is the more accurate statement. I was only going by memory but I believe you are right. Though from what I recal... even winning a round was very rare for Islam.

[@ripevanwinkle494]

Khabib had that dog in him.

[@justsomeguywholikesramen]

This is exactly what I was thinking while watching this video. Islam may have much better striking than Khabib and comparable wrestling, but I still think in a one-on-one fight, Khabib would beat Islam.

[@Renulph]

Khabib only lost two rounds his whole career and they were both very sus, one against Conor and Gaethje, two fighters he dismantled completely and the so-called lost rounds were highly criticized in the MMA community.

[@lukeinvictus]

well, the rounds he won against tibau were sus too, although tibau was on roids

[@cldstz3217]

Sometimes skill is not all that matter. Khabib was much more aggressive much more ferocious than Islam. His mindset was also better, and all that made him better than Islam. 29-0 never knocked out, knocked down or even bleed.

[@larrydalobster3548]

29-0 facing fighters that were 2-5 up until he was top 7 in division and had mediocre ground game😬, Islam would maul all of these guys the same way

[@InnanetSlatt]

I think Makhachev just had more time to evolve as a striker. Khabib kept getting better on the feet as well. By the end, he out struck Conor and won at least one round on the feet against basically every striker in the fights I closely watched. And one thing Khabib will always have over Makhachev is a massively higher fight IQ. One of the only reasons Makhachev has such good fight plans is that Khabib can/has impart knowledge and help him game plan. Then there’s things like chin and mentality that Khabib will always have on him.

[@traiwitz2736]

facts

[@Zamlak]

Khabib ate shots, parried, moved his head, and grappled. That right hand vs connor was the only time i ever seen him hurt somebody on the feet. Massive khabib fan and his striking did improve, but i guess he was always able to implement his gameplan so he never had to develop his striking much.

[@affandeshmukh1582]

Khabib is an OG. Khabib has a mindset and a heart unlike anyone I have seen. That’s what separates him. Ultra confident and amazing trash talker

[@account-pb2df]

That literally describes Islam

[@madextreme2682]

If this year had shown us anything so far , it's that you don't have to be the most versatile and flashy striker to beat the best strikers , first it was Islam who won a close fight against Volk in a fight that was mostly contested on the feet , then Du Plessis TKO'd Robert Whittaker , then Strickland made the best striker in MMA in Izzy look fairly easy , and now Makhachev KO'd Volk in rd 1.

[@tristancarter6630]

literally the fundamentals are winning … chin tucked, hands up simple asf

[@timammann]

@@tristancarter6630 to be fair volk had hands up during the ko

[@tristancarter6630]

@@timammann yeah but he always backs away with his chin up it’s a bad habit of his

[@bradythomas9612]

This is Islam’s Usman/Masvidal 2 moment. He now has an aura of invincibility and I don’t think I’ll ever see him lose.

[@joeswanson5486]

Volks goat George is a good journey men who get title shot off of date niaz

[@sherifnabil50]

The first fight was only close coz of the hydration rules in Perth

[@coreymcnulty5125]

islam is a borderline top 5 striker in my opinion

[@cashsstylist2940]

His striking is good, but idk about that. His grappling threat opens up his striking game a lot.

[@coreymcnulty5125]

@@cashsstylist2940 yeah for sure but he did go blow for blow with volk in the first fight and then absolutely shred him with kicks in the 2nd fight he also dropped charles bad

[@eLsain]

he's a good counter striker. I feel like his striking gets better the better his opponent striking.

[@cashsstylist2940]

@@coreymcnulty5125 for sure, wasn’t saying he isn’t a good striker. He’s great. Just not too 5, in my personal opinion of course.

[@coreymcnulty5125]

@@cashsstylist2940 i think there’s a case for like 5-8

[@UmarCoinMaster]

I don't understand the comparison. May be skill wise islam is better. But my point is the real dominance is that when even your one thing is weak you still beat everyone with complete dominance. Despite of his low striking khabib still dominant everyone this is called dominance if you will have all the tools then of course you'll dominate.

[@louitomlinson6360]

I think khabibs fight IQ was quite a lot better than Islam’s , however Islam’s striking is levels above khabibs

[@noelloh561]

well rounded doesn't always mean you are the better fighter. I'll say when you don't even bleed fighting, it's kinda hard to say that you're not in the goat conversation

[@ball2958]

ur so braindead bro 💀, so many fighters have not bled in their careers stop thinking that makes him the goat

[@seanmcglynn2476]

He has also been training for 4 more years since Khabib has retired. More time to work on his striking.

[@willavery5124]

Also it’s a bit unfair to judge the grappling of khabib’s opponents, he beat the best contenders at the time during his title reign and effortlessly submitted them

[@michaelwest2405]

I think this is a key point. Yes, khabib’s competition wasn’t as good. But he was mopping the floor with them. Not a single fight was even close. I do think Islam is more skilled bc of his all around game, but I feel Islam is slightly less dominant than khabib. Khabib was so dominant that I didn’t think he would ever lose, and I don’t quite feel the same way about Islam yet. Islam should be ranked higher all time though bc he will have a better resume and a longer run

[@rohanshah8808]

Well rounded ..doesn't mean better You can have 5 skills..and your opponent 1...but if that 1 skill has reached the max. Level ...no one is beating you

[@unathinxasana1651]

ONE event or win can change the entire view of MMA fans. When he had a close fight with volk they said khabib is better and now he suddenly 10 steps below😂

[@jadenbbbruh5227]

I think Islam is better. In a sport where style makes fights being elite everywhere is a huge boon. I think their resumes are close to where all time status should be determined by who’s better and who has the most impressive wins. Obviously that goes to Islam. I think he’s the lightweight goat and a top 5 fighter ever. He’s got potential to be the GOAT if he sticks around long enough. 5-6 title defenses at lightweight and some at 170 is an insane resume. Defenses at lightweight are worth more than at 85 and 205 imo

[@Sid-MMA]

Actually, Islam Makhachev is the Gold standard of MMA on which every fighter should be measured in the future. He is the most complete fighter that ever existed in MMA . Not only he is the best Grappler but his striking is also second to none . Due to his Dominant grappling a false narrative had been paddled throughout his career that he wasn't a good striker . That's actually rubbish . He is the best striker out there as well .No one at Lightweight and welterweight can match his striking prowess and you will see in future how he out classes fighters like Gaethji , leon Edwards and Colby Covington basically through his striking. Note: Despite all the greatness of Makhachev he is not Khabib. Khabib had a different aura of invincibility, a charisma that none has achieved in MMA not even Jon Jones. He was a mythical fighter , tale of legends , the bruce lee of MMA.

[@lindsaymays7206]

Oh please. Khabib was known for being absolutely petrified of welterweight, killing himself to fight smaller strikers and retiring early while Jon Jonesis known as the youngest champ ever and having the best resume ever against killers and world champions. Khabib can’t hold JJ’s jockstrap.

[@ImranKhan-gs2hy]

Nah man, Islam is the more complete MMA fighter but Khabib’s limited yet specialized skill set would overwhelm him. And lets no overlook the fact that Khabib’s striking was still improving, he went toe to toe with Justin more majority of the 1st round. Its just that he retired before we got to witness his final form, unfortunately.

[@Yeaggghurte]

Islam would neutralize the grappling and his defense is perfect he wins every time

[@KaxMisha]

Khabib is better and it's not particularly close, and Makhachev would tell you this himself if prompted. Makhachev is much more well-rounded, no doubt, but Khabib is more dominant in his dominant skillset and always succeeds in getting the fight there. Khabib is also significantly more physical. If the two fought, Khabib would take Makhachev down and smash him. To be sure, a huge part of this is that Khabib is simply much more athletic. In terms of skillset, Makhachev has the edge. In terms of who is the better figher, it's still Khabib.

[@kennwin]

Javiers been saying this for awhile already. Islam is the more complete fighter, he is better than khabib in MMA. He said what really makes Khabib next level is his mentality. But since ppl worship Khabib, they can't even imagine anyone above him. They always dismiss Javier and just say he's trying to promote his fighter.

[@bengough6955]

I respect that. Islam is more complete although that mentality does go a long way to winning in tough competition even if you don't have as big a toolkit. Ultimately Khabib iscone thing and Islam another

[@derschutz4737]

Islam is the more complete fighter and does have more refined technical ability. Sadly, those things alone don't determine your level as a fighter. That's why Khabib is better and would maul Islam just like everybody else.

[@FakeAndTrolled]

Khabib had a more proven ability to digest punishment. He was hit cleanly by some of the best strikers and never came close to getting knocked out.

[@Freestyler-rr]

Mentallity is very important in sports. For example, in tennis Federer is more talented, but djokovic's mentallity makes him the best.

[@adamburling9551]

LOL you don't listen to anything apparently.

[@ya2440]

Last time they said Islam is not khabib in a bad way😂

[@AntiShadowmade]

khabibs pressure would be different more then anything islam has handle in the octagon. the way he stalked people down and made it inevitable they either were stuck getting pounded in the face from top or leaving there self open for a submission was scary. he could throw whatever he wanted at u defending enough to open up for that takedown. he never was really hurt in his career go compare how they both look post fight man was a machine at that point.

[@lennoth]

He's more skilled than Khabib but he's easier to defeat. Khabib was colder and more pragmatic, he always had great pressure in the cage and always jumped straight to wrestling as soon as he could. Islam is less pragmatic and takes more risk.

[@lror]

Is Islam the only fighter to ever beat p4p #3 then p4p #1 then p4p #2, back to back to back? And he did this by submitting the best submission artist and KO'd the best striker right? Oh and not to meantion ending 2 double digit win streaks while he was at it, yeah?

[@logankreider7217]

UFC has a large favoritism in skill to grappling, I think it's pretty easy to say khabib would've railed volk in islam's first fight against him as soon as volk was on the ground. Though Islam is the better striker, in the UFC is it that important compared to an unbeatable ground game? On top of this like others said Mendez said Khabib always won against the other guys he trained with. Maybe Khabib wouldn't have ended Volk 2 or Olivera as fast as Islam, but is it better to win fast or win at all?

[@willavery5124]

I don’t even agree that makhachev has better defense than khabib, makhachev got sparked unconscious in the ufc while khabib never even got cut, nevermind ko’ed or lost a fight and barely lost a round

[@D-A-N-]

Khabib never lost a round . Arguably 1 . I think it’s hard to test it because Islam has better k.o but Khabib never put fear in us as fans .

[@rishabhinc2936]

Wdym he Lost to tibau

[@twotomato]

the whole point of the conversation is that khabib just didnt face fighters that are in same level as islam or others

[@netwatch7261]

Khabib's camp has always said islam was better.

[@AstralAkshay]

Thank you! Someone knows. Javier mendes, both khabib and islams coach, said islam is better and more well rounded because while khabib was spending all that time mastering his grappling; islam went to different camps and learned proper defense, striking and kicking. And he’s still a master on the floor

[@notoftentold4076]

In the end, Islam and Khabib is just better than the rest.

[@oNextq]

Think this is a no-brainer it’s obvious and by far and away Islam.

[@Myk.9]

I agree Brother

[@FaisalKhan-ws6rj]

Na man khabib iq is next level,im khabib& islam fan, both r good but khabib still 🐐

[@yns_bandz16]

Its honestly hard to gauge the difference in grappling skill between them because khabib doesn’t have any good wrestlers on his résumé where as islam does so khabib seems to have more dominant top control better chain wrestling & more overwhelming pressure but we didn’t get to see him grapple guys like volk or arman tsarukyan like makhachev has so its really hard to know how they stack up in that department

[@benjthewhite]

Khabib is easily the better grappler. His ground control, submissions, and gnp were devastating. His striking is ok but nothing to ride home about, and although he stood with guys like McGregor, Porier and Gaethje, he relied on wrestling in those. Islam seems good with ground control but his submissions feel like a last resort for once his opponents are exhausted, hence why they weren’t really attempted on Volk, because he doesn’t get tired. Islams striking is far better than Khabib. I’m still giving it to Khabib marginally, personally hoping to see how Islam handles Gaethje and Porier to see the difference between how him and Khabib fought them

[@muamerblazevic]

Remember in Australia - dehydrated jetlag and didn't have Habib leading up to the fight at all. The weight difference was one pound and they fight in divisions that are 10 pounds apart which means that he was barely alive. That's why Alex was firing on all cylinders and Islam was tired and seemed less aggressive and less eager to go for the finish.

[@NumaanSubzwari]

I think khabib is overall a better grappler, from GnP to overall top control.

[@coreymcnulty5125]

islam is better and it’s not really close when it comes to skill

[@cybercop0059]

Tbh Islam's wrestling skills are kinda overrated. He couldnt takedown a short notice Volk and this time Islam was rehydrated to the fullest. He struggled to takedown Volk in their first match. Struggled to takedown Oliveira. Islam is more of a well rounded guy who has great grappling but hes not an overwhelming chain wrestler like Khabib was. Khamzat actually is a better comparison to Khabib because Khamzat has aggressive chain wrestling like mat returns, and just in general relentless persuit of takedowns like Khabib was. What Khabib had over Khamzat was also that cardio. Islam and Khabib are just both different fighters. I think Khabib is still the best.

[@saltyman66]

Bro so his wrestling is overated because he struggled to take down FUCKING VOLK AND OLIVERA???💀💀💀💀

[@elired4669]

The octagon dictates who is better. - Khabib NEVER lost .. NEVER bled .. NEVER got KNOCKED down.. arguably NEVER lost a round - The most dominant fighter in the history of any combat sport. - He even chooses how to finish his opponents based on if he likes them ( Gaethje ) or not ( Conor ) - The GOAT of all goats.

[@lucastfitness7299]

He has 100% lost rounds. 1 to Conor, 1 to Gaethje, 1 to tibau. And he would’ve lost rounds to volk I’ll tell you that

[@elired4669]

​@@lucastfitness7299The biased judges scored those rounds against him .. but in reality he won them. - Did you see Tibau shape after USADA tests? .. yes, exactly. - Do you realize how great is Khabib, when all what you can say against him is that he lost rounds of some fights that he actually dominated and won?

[@boio_thedudeman1925]

Those feats "never bled, never lost a round [lost 1 to conor and 1 to gaethje] have nothing to do with khabib being the GOAT. Those feats are definitely the most impressive in mma, but islam has fought way better competition than Khabib did and dominated them in nearly the same fashion. He'll definitely have more title defenses than Khabib, and even members of Islam's camp have said he's surpassed Khabib in skill. Khabib had the chance to be the lightweight GOAT he absolutely could've gained that title (definitely not the greatest mma fighter in history, i.e., Jon Jones, Demetrius Johnson, I think even Jose Aldo has a higher spot on that list than Khabib) but he just retired way too early and so he lost that chance. Islam is now the lightweight Goat and has officially pretty clearly surpassed khabib when it comes to the work he's put in that octagon.

[@elired4669]

@@boio_thedudeman1925 Unlike Islam, Khabib looked unbeatable .. and Every McTapper fan will choose anybody over Khabib .. because all of them suffer PTSD from the GOAT .. It is what it is

[@Yeaggghurte]

@@elired4669a drunk drugged weight class up Connor mcgregor almost knocked out your boy stfu

[@hereje2576]

Khabib may not be one of the best strikers, but he could beat them he will always be more impressive for going 13-0 without bleeding once, and that is the thing

[@socialmediaego]

Khabib says Islam is better so that’s the end of that argument. Khabib dominated when he was active, but he can never be top 5 as he’s left after 3 title defenses. Islam will most likely past that and GSP,Silva, and Jones all surpassed that already.

[@ge7581]

And islam says khabib is better. Khabibs conditioning, fight iq, grappling, confidence and heart are all better than islam.

[@elired4669]

Khabib didn't need so many title defenses to be the goat. Why? For the simple reason that he cleared his division before retirement. Give me a name of a lightweight who could resist Khabib's power before he retired, who? Oliveira? Chandler? Tony? Who? No one in the division had a chance against him.

[@AyrtonJimenez]

Islam said he wouldn’t be able to stop Khabib in the cage though so they both hype up eachother

[@rohanshah8808]

Khabib's striking is 10 levels below islam🤦‍♂️ Khabib literally struck down McGregor..landed knees on gaethje etc..AND IF YOU THINK THEIR WRESTLING IS CLOSE...just go watch their aka videos...godamn DON'T JUST START SAYING STUPID STUFF...😂 do the research first

[@legre5992]

Khabib made it seem like he wasnt breaking a sweat

[@lucastracymma8764]

Did Makhachev break a sweat against Volk last night ? Did Khabib ever fight volk?

[@troubleman9822]

@@lucastracymma8764 thats a stupid question

[@frankiebaby7]

@@lucastracymma8764 I mean he surely did in the first fight. kod volk off the couch with no training and no bulking up. but ya I thing islams better

[@dakshkatoch-pt8bh]

​@@lucastracymma8764bruh I love volk too But volk shouldn't be fighting these 155ers The size disadvantage is crazy (they cut a lot of weight) If u have sparred with big guys who have the same skillset as you You must understand what I am talking about Volk is in my top 5 even if he loses to topuria But I hope he doesn't fight in 155 again

[@truthseeker96]

Islam is definitely more well rounded. But Khabib is more durable, has a masterful fight iq and unsurpassed mental strength

[@Kdfgsdfgsfdgaksdfajksd]

That's why Leon Edwards has the most aesthetic physique

[@aacc-sy3sd]

Thumbs down for overused and unfunny comment

[@ZSergioZ1]

You forget so many points! Take down defense, Kicking, judo throws, fight iq, stamina! You can max out Islam in every aspect! But Javier Mendes told 1 year ago that Islam won rounds against Khabib not a sparring session! But imagine just winning Rounds against Khabib must be Crazy! How good is Islam when he is able to win Rounds?

[@anyq_CS]

3 years later: usman nurmagomedov is better than islam

[@LennyComments]

even khabib himself said in the past that islam is better. people just overromatisize Khabib‘s 29:0 but realisticly islam has surpassed him a long time ago

[@larrydalobster3548]

If we go deeply, Islam is the better fighter and ITS NOT EVEN CLOSE If we go into the grappling aspect you can make an argument that Islam is the better submission artist since he has 6 sub wins and Khabib has 5, and submitted a guy like Olivera def puts him over Khabib you can also make the argument that Islam also gets the fight to the ground easier and more efficiently since his TT% is higher than Khabibs, I think Khabib uses the cage way more and takes people down using the cage the most out of any fighter I ever seen, with Islam he can take you down anywhere effectively, not saying Khabib can’t but its not that efficient in open space also Islams throws and trips are the best in the game and maybe UFC history, I think Khabib has better top pressure and better ground and pound but I think Islam is also better in the clinch, He looks so strong there in Thai Plum and his Knees against Volk in the clinch were crisp If we go to the striking aspect, Even thought they share basically the same height, weight and reach measurements Islam is longer as in he fights longer, Khabib on the feet at times fights like he’s shorter like Chad Mendez, Islams teep kicks, and the body roundhouse is money Islam also being a southpaw makes it better since 90% of the roster fights at conventional, Khabibs pressure and aggressiveness is better than Islams but Islams composure his patience on the feet is one of the best in the UFC not only that but part of why his striking so good is because he has the best striking defense in the UFC, it was hard for Volk, Olivera to land clean shots against Islam, Islams check right hook is really good, his counter striking is one if the best in the UFC as well, Islam has more power, more accurate, and his footwork and feints is underrated, I believe that Khabib has a better Chin which saves him from the big shots he takes, and his Cardio is better but Islam is the real deal, I can safely say he’s the most skilled fighter in the UFC right now

[@OZAMA]

Im sorry but you don't know the little details of grappling if you think islam is a better fighter. Khabibs grappling is just too good

[@saellenx3528]

Khabib mauled people on the ground. It is not as you said that he was just a little bit better. He was by 10 levels better and he made it look easy. Respect the GOAT of the Lightweight division. Also, it doesn't matter how good is your striking if you are glued to the ground the entire fight, getting mauled.

[@adamhsr]

Islam: striking, submissions Khabib: ground and pound, cardio, strength, grappling, chin Thats the way i see it.

[@Dizzle72]

Islam fought way better competition for sure

[@_munkykok_]

Alright, but we all know skills alone don't matter anyway. The only question that matters with fighters, is *WHO'S MORE AWESOME??*

[@IstarlinIbrahim-o2k]

In terms of wins and records, makachev has a case. But khabib would have dominated volk without any problem. Khabib was born with the greatest grappling game ever. Nobody mastered ground and pound like him and he is so good l, he will beat anybody that stood infront of him

[@Akakikukaku]

And sometime soon we'll see Umar comeback, and someday we'll see Usman in the UFC It's like a conveyor belt... lol

[@Toasty1308]

I need to see more from islams grappling and ground and pound. If khabibs is 100, I haven’t seen enough to call islams a 95. Khabib fought all the top opponents at the time, you can’t assume he couldn’t beat volk and Charles like he did all the others just cuz he didn’t fight them. I agree on the striking though. Islam tagged Oliviera before the submission, it wasn’t only grappling and then looked mediocre grappling with no ground and pound vs volk and left bloodied, while khabib looked untouched against the best strikers in the ufc.

[@aidendocherty1558]

I agree he beat the best at the time

[@crazymachineforlife]

Islam never bled against Volk, any blood you saw was from Volkanoski, he had a deep gash that exposeed his eyebrow bones.