Islam Makhachev revealed details of his conversation with Khabib Nurmagomedov following his first lightweight title defence at UFC 284.
Nurmagomedov was absent from the corner of the lightweight champion following his announcement at the start of the year that he was stepping away from MMA completely.
‘The Eagle’ led his protégé to the 155 titles back in October when Makhachev submitted Charles Oliveira.
And despite not being with him in Australia, it didn’t stop the 29-0 fighter from speaking with the champ following his performance.
Islam Makhachev Speaks to Khabib Nurmagomedov
He said: “He [Khabib] was so nervous and he was saying, ‘why were you doing this’. I was like ‘Hey, if you came to the fight, if you were in my corner I could’ve done this [what Khabib was suggesting], but you didn’t come.’”
The Russian successfully made the first defence of his title last night against Alexander Volkanovski, with scores of 49-46, 48-47, and 48-47 securing him the unanimous decision victory.
The 31-year-old was confident that the judges made the correct decision whereas Volkanovski believes he won rounds 2,3 and 5. Following the fight, the champion admitted he was surprised by the featherweight champion.
“He was such a short and hard opponent, I needed a tough fight as I have to improve.
“I thought he was going to be easy on the ground, but this guy improved a lot and I needed a tough guy – I showed why I’m number one, you like or you don’t like I am the best fighter in the world right now.
“I prepared for a hard fight, in the last round he landed a good punch but all of the other rounds I won, in my opinion.
“After he landed the good shot in the last round, I went down and tried to get a triangle choke or armbar. First round I landed good shots many times but this guy is so strong, he always tries to push you.”
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
