In a candid interview, Makhachev opened up about these two topics, shedding light on the dynamics between him, his coach and mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov, and the rising star Tsarukyan, who has often been mentioned as a potential challenger to Makhachev’s throne.
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Flight Incident
Khabib Nurmagomedov, the undefeated former UFC lightweight champion and mentor to Makhachev, has always been known for his strict approach to discipline, both inside and outside the octagon. However, a recent incident involving Khabib being removed from a flight caused quite a stir in the MMA community.
According to Makhachev, the situation was much less dramatic than it initially appeared. “It was a misunderstanding,” Makhachev explained. “Khabib is a very disciplined person, but he doesn’t tolerate disrespect. The flight attendants, they were giving him a hard time, and things just escalated.”
While the details remain murky, Makhachev clarified that Khabib’s actions were not aggressive but rather a response to the situation escalating beyond control. “It was a moment where Khabib felt disrespected,” Makhachev continued. “He doesn’t back down from any disrespect, even when it’s not inside the cage.”
This incident shows a side of Khabib that fans don’t often see—the side of him that demands respect in all walks of life. Though the event made headlines, Makhachev emphasized that the matter was quickly resolved, and Khabib’s reputation as a disciplined, no-nonsense figure in the sport remained intact.
Arman Tsarukyan: A Future Threat?
Another hot topic Makhachev touched upon in the interview was the rise of Arman Tsarukyan, a young, talented lightweight who has been gaining attention for his performances in the UFC. Tsarukyan and Makhachev have shared history, as the two previously faced off in 2019 at UFC Fight Night 149, where Makhachev earned a dominant decision victory. However, Tsarukyan has continued to improve and evolve, and many consider him a serious threat in the lightweight division.
When asked about Tsarukyan’s rise, Makhachev didn’t hold back but also expressed a level of respect. “Arman is a great fighter. He’s young, talented, and he’s growing in the sport,” Makhachev said. “But I’m still the best lightweight in the world, and I’ve proven that. He’s still got a long way to go before he reaches my level.”
Makhachev acknowledged Tsarukyan’s potential and his impressive performances in recent bouts, but he also emphasized that while the rising contender is a solid fighter, there are still areas where he believes Tsarukyan lacks the experience and skills needed to compete at the highest level. “I respect him, but he’s still learning. I’ve been in the game for much longer, and I’ve fought tougher opponents,” Makhachev added.
The two fighters are likely to meet again down the line, as Tsarukyan continues to climb the ranks of the UFC lightweight division. Makhachev is confident that whenever that rematch happens, he will once again come out on top, solidifying his claim as the top lightweight in the world.
Makhachev’s Own Journey and Future Plans
As Makhachev’s star continues to rise, the champion is focused on maintaining his dominance in the lightweight division. With Khabib’s retirement from active competition, Makhachev has taken on the role of leader within the team, carrying the torch forward. “Khabib helped me become who I am today,” Makhachev said. “But now, I’m the one leading the team, and I have to keep pushing myself and others to be the best.”
Makhachev’s goal is simple—he wants to continue winning and defend his title against the toughest competitors in the world. “I’m ready for anyone. I’m the champion, and I’m not afraid of anyone,” Makhachev declared. “I’ve got the skills, the heart, and the mindset to stay on top for as long as I want.”
His next opponent remains unclear, but with his skill set, undefeated record, and steady rise in the division, Makhachev’s reign appears poised to last for years to come. However, fighters like Tsarukyan, along with others in the stacked lightweight division, are sure to keep the pressure on Makhachev to prove that he is truly the best.
Conclusion
Islam Makhachev’s recent comments about Khabib Nurmagomedov and Arman Tsarukyan shed light on the complex relationships and dynamics in the lightweight division. The incident with Khabib may have been a moment of controversy, but Makhachev’s perspective reminds fans that even in tense situations, Khabib’s actions were rooted in a demand for respect. As for Tsarukyan, Makhachev remains confident in his abilities, but he recognizes that his fellow lightweight contender has the potential to be a future threat.
As Makhachev looks to defend his title and continue his dominance, all eyes will be on the lightweight division to see who emerges as the next challenger for his throne—and whether that challenge will come from the rising star Arman Tsarukyan. For now, Makhachev’s focus remains clear: continue to prove that he is the undisputed king of the lightweight division.
