In the week before Islam Makhachev suffered his sole loss to Adriano Martins, there was a huge disagreement in the Russian’s camp.
And that ordeal is perhaps what cost the icon his undefeated record.
Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov did not want Islam Makhachev to strike
In the lead-up to UFC 192, Islam Makhachev had been working extremely hard in the striking department.
Showcasing his natural talent, the Dagestani made astronomical improvements, to such an extent, that Javier Mendez wanted him to use his fists in the fight.
However, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov completely disagreed, pleading with his fellow coach and fighter to reconsider.
Alas, they went ahead with the plan, and it cost Makhachev dearly.
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During an event in Russia, the father of Khabib Nurmagomedov, said: “In my work, I think the biggest regret is that I agreed with Javier Mendez about exchanging punches in Islam’s fight.
“Islam came up to me and said, ‘I’ll exchange punches’. I said, ‘You can give me the first round at least. Don’t go in an exchange. He is very dangerous in the first round’.
“Javier said, ‘Islam is ready; let him do it’. I did not agree with them. For a week, they both tried to persuade me.
“I wrote it in my journal, and made them both write that I didn’t agree with this plan. Islam Makhachev got dropped; this was his first defeat.
“That’s why I tell Islam, ‘Don’t listen to me if you want to get knocked out again’.”
Paddy Pimblett agrees Islam Makhachev ‘wouldn’t stand a chance’ against him
In the years since, Makhachev has learned from his errors and cemented his place at the top of the UFC pound-for-pound rankings.
But when you’re on the throne, you’re constantly being hunted by contenders desperate to wear the crown for themselves.
And Paddy Pimblett would love nothing more than to have the opportunity to go toe-to-toe with the icon inside the cage.
The Liverpudlian explained why he believes the lightweight champion would have no chance of beating him.
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