‘Takedown Is Wrestling, Wrestling Is Power’

Polish power isn’t just for striking anymore.

That’s according to UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, who was backstage at UFC 259 as part of the coaching team for 155-pound standout Islam Makhachev. “The Eagle” just so happened to be lurking by the curtain when Jan Blachowicz defeated Israel Adesanya to retain his 205-pound title.

“It was a great fight, great takedown,” Nurmagomedov told Blachowicz. “You know why you win? Two takedowns. Takedown is wrestling. Wrestling is power.”

Nurmagomedov set a UFC record for takedowns against a four-time NAIA All-American, so I think it’s safe to say the Dagestani grappler — who may or may not be retired from competition — is something of an expert.

Watch the clip in its entirety from the UFC 259 “Thrill & Agony” video below:

For much more on Blachowicz’s victory over Adesanya, as well as championship wins for Amanda Nunes and Aljamain Sterling at UFC 259, click here.