Ahead of Islam Makhachev’s impending move up to the welterweight division, Khabib Nurmagomedov has revealed who he must look out for.
Earlier this year, Islam Makhachev shockingly revealed that he was vacating his lightweight title in pursuit of a welterweight title fight against Jack Della Maddalena.
Despite having moved on from 155lbs, Makhachev has hinted that there is potential to move back down and has told Ilia Topuria who he should defend his title against next.
And although Makhachev is widely regarded as the pound-for-pound best fighter on the planet, ahead of his move up to 170lbs, he has been warned of his top three threats by Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Khabib warns Makhachev of the top 3 threats at welterweight
The welterweight division is in somewhat of a transitional period with former champions Belal Muhammad, Leon Edwards, and Kamaru Usman still occupying spots in the top five of the division.
However, there are a few new contenders beginning to emerge in the division, with the likes of Sean Brady and Michael Morales continuing to showcase impressive performances.
And with Makhachev’s title fight against Della Maddalena planned for the next few months, Nurmagomedov has admitted who he believes are the top three threats in the division.
“In the welterweight division, I see Shavkat (Rakhmonov) as someone who commands respect and brings real risk. Shavkat, Belal. Ian Machado Garry I wouldn’t consider him such a serious threat. I don’t see Sean Brady as a big threat,” Khabib told Kamil Gadzhiyev.
“Stylistically, he’s too convenient for Islam. Islam would out strike him, and if they grappled, Islam would control him, I don’t see Brady as a dangerous opponent. Shavkat, Belal, and Maddalena (are the biggest threats),” Khabib continued.
Ian Machado Garry denies rumors of a fight against Leon Edwards
Before Ian Machado Garry is picked for a title fight, he will likely need at least one more impressive win against a top ranked welterweight.
The Irishman recently shut down reports that he was in talks to take on Edwards near the end of the year, in what would be a fight long in the making.