Team Khabib is gearing up for a stacked lineup of fights in the coming weeks, with some of its biggest names taking on top contenders. Usman Nurmagomedov is set to face Paul Hughes, Islam Makhachev will defend his lightweight belt against Arman Tsarukyan, and Umar Nurmagomedov will challenge Merab Dvalishvili for the bantamweight title. Despite his own fight, Usman shared that his focus is more on the challenges ahead for Islam and Umar, showing his deep bond with his teammates.
Usman shared that he feels more stressed and nervous about his teammates’ fights, including Umar, Islam, and Tagir’s, than his own. He expressed his unwavering belief in their success, emphasizing how much he cares for them and their performances.
In his words, “Honestly Umar and Islam, I’m more nervous about these guys and about my fights I don’t even care. I know what I can do and I know my skills, I have to go in the cage and referee will say, ‘Let’s start guys’.”
Usman reflected on the possibility of Team Khabib starting the year with two UFC champions, alongside champions in PFL and Bellator, calling it an incredible achievement for their team.
Javier Mendez Says Islam Makhachev Can Become 185lbs Champ
Makhachev’s coach, Javier Mendez, sees a historic future for the lightweight champion, predicting he could become the first UFC 3-division champion. Confident in his abilities, Mendez believes a move to middleweight is achievable if Makhachev chooses to pursue it.
The coach said, “I’m 100% sure Islam can be the 185-pound champion if that’s what he decides to do. I see it in the gym, I know how good he is. Moving to 185 won’t be a problem for him. It’s all about whether he wants it.”
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Islam Makhachev had previously hinted at a potential move to the welterweight division, but no updates on that plan have surfaced recently. For now, all eyes are on his lightweight title defense against Arman Tsarukyan in January, promising an exciting showdown for fans.
