The question Islam Makhachev or Khabib Nurmagomedov has become an age old discussion in the UFC now. Both fighters have spectacular track records in their run as UFC lightweight champions. But who would win in a fight between the two? Tom Aspinall answered this question in a recent interview.
Tom Aspinall recently did an interview with Froch on Fighting. During the discussion, Aspinall shared his thoughts on a potential showdown between two of the best lightweights in the promotion’s history. Interestingly, the Brit chose Islam Makhachev over Khabib Nurmagomedov stating that he has a “more dangerous” striking ability.
I actually think Islam might take it, I think he’s a bit of a better striker, I think he’s a more dangerous striker. I think grappling wise they’re very similar, I reckon Islam might take that… I think the question is obviously when they’re both in their prime innit? So I would say Islam’s a little bit better.
Tom Aspinall said
Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev share many similarities. This was due to their shared background and training under Khabib’s father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. Both fighters have dominant grappling skills, but there are a few key differences.
⚡️Tom Aspinall thinks Islam Makhachev would beat Khabib Nurmagomedov if they were ever to fight 🦅
“I actually think Islam might take it, I think he’s a bit of a better striker, I think he’s a more dangerous striker. I think grappling wise they’re very similar, I reckon Islam… pic.twitter.com/063qk4Efhi
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) August 4, 2024
Makhachev is considered a better striker than Nurmagomedov with a more refined technique. After their first 9 UFC fights, Khabib had a perfect 9-0 record, while Makhachev was 8-1. Khabib retired undefeated while Makhachev currently rules the lightweight division and is aiming for double championship status.
Tom Aspinall’s pick for Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk rematch
The rematch between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk will happen later this year in December, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Usyk claimed victory over Fury in their first encounter, where he won by split decision to become the undisputed heavyweight champion. Now with the rematch coming up, who would UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall choose to win?
Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk (via Sky Sports)Aspinall addressed this question in his recent interview on Froch on Fighting. The Brit revealed that he was friends with Fury and has sparred with the heavyweight boxer on several occasions. But he could not stop himself from confessing that he admired the Ukrainian champion as a boxer.
It is difficult to be an Usyk fan at the moment. That guy is incredible.
Tom Aspinall said
In their initial fight, Usyk managed to almost knock Fury down, leading to a thrilling and closely contested fight. Fury’s promoter, Frank Warren, has expressed confidence in Fury’s ability to make the necessary adjustments for the rematch. Both fighters will once again clash for all the heavyweight titles. Boxing fans eagerly await another historic bout in the ring.
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