New And Improved!

Islam Makhachev is on the cusp of winning his 14th-straight fight inside of the Octagon, but does that mean he’s better than his lightweight predecessor, Khabib Nurmagomedov?

According to former UFC champion and current color commentator, Michael Bisping, Makhachev is already a “new and improved” version of “The Eagle.”

Makhachev, who defends his lightweight title for the third time against Dustin Poirier tomorrow night (Sat., June 1, 2024) at UFC 302 live on ESPN+ PPV from inside Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., is already the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world. He has defeated the likes of Charles Oliveira, Alexander Volkanovski (twice), and Arman Tsarukyan, while going undefeated since a flash-knockout loss to Adriano Martins back in 2015.

However, people forget just how dominant Nurmagomedov was. The former UFC lightweight champion produced a career record of 29-0 (13-0 UFC) while handily defeating the likes of Poirier, Conor McGregor, Justin Gaethje, Edson Barboza, Rafael dos Anjos, and more. Khabib’s resume seems to be a bit stronger than Makhachev’s, but what about their actual skillsets?

Bisping, who has been around the sport for quite some time, believes Makhachev is a better version of his long-time friend and training partner.

“Khabib came first and he’ll always be remembered for that, for what he did to the sport, how he represented Dagestan and implemented that style and it took over the sport, let’s be honest,” said Bisping during a recent breakdown on TNT Sports. “But his time has gone. It has past, and you never know. There’s rumors he might be coming back, but Islam is a new, improved version.”

“Look at the head kick knockout of Alexander Volkanovski,” he continued. “He’s much, much smoother on the feet. His grappling is just as good as Khabib’s or it’s certainly up there. It’s a discussion.”

What say you, Maniacs? Is Makhachev already better than Khabib or does he still have some work to do?

Sound off!

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To check out the latest and greatest UFC 302: “Makhachev vs. Poirier” news and notes be sure to hit up our comprehensive event archive right here. For the updated and finalized UFC 302 fight card and ESPN+ lineup click here.