Islam Makhachev Jokes About Khabib’s Comeback
Islam Makhachev joked that he never tried to persuade his longtime teammate and coach, Khabib Nurmagomedov, to return to fighting: “No! Why do I need this? There’s no need for extra competition.” The lightweight champion made the remark in an October 2024 Match TV interview, as reports again discussed Khabib’s retirement.
A Joke About Extra Competition
Asked whether he had tried to convince Nurmagomedov to come back, Makhachev replied with a joke about not wanting “extra competition.” The comment was a lighthearted answer in an interview, not evidence that a comeback was being planned. EssentiallySports reported the Match TV exchange.
Makhachev Matched Khabib’s Defense Record
Nurmagomedov retired in 2020 with three successful UFC lightweight title defenses. Makhachev won the belt in October 2022 and reached three consecutive defenses by submitting Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 in June 2024, matching Khabib’s division record at the time. The UFC’s event report records Makhachev’s win and third straight defense.
Khabib Had Ruled Out a Comeback
Earlier that month, Nurmagomedov told Indonesian outlet iNews there was “no chance” he would fight again—not even one percent. He retired after defeating Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 in October 2020, following the death of his father, Abdulmanap, and a promise to his mother. MMA Fighting reported his comments and retirement context.
What Happened With Makhachev’s Next Defense
In October 2024, Makhachev was recovering from a hand injury, with a January return under discussion. The UFC later booked him to face Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311 on January 18, 2025. Tsarukyan withdrew before the event, and Makhachev instead submitted Renato Moicano in the first round. The UFC’s event update and official results confirm the change and outcome.
Makhachev’s quip reflected the familiarity between teammates who had both become UFC lightweight champions. Nurmagomedov stayed retired and continued working as a coach while Makhachev carried on competing.
Sources
EssentiallySports: Makhachev’s Match TV interview
MMA Fighting: Khabib rules out returning to the UFC
UFC: Makhachev’s third title defense at UFC 302
UFC: Tsarukyan withdraws from UFC 311
UFC: UFC 311 results
