Khabib ‘The Eagle’ Nurmagomedov’s run in the UFC was amazing yet cut short because of personal reasons. The Dagestani native not only put his country on the map of combat sports but also made a name for himself as an unbeaten legend. The retired MMA fighter almost went toe-to-toe with BMF champion Max Holloway six years ago.
Originally, UFC 223 featured Tony Ferguson and Khabib Nurmagomedov. Unfortunately, Ferguson withdrew from the bout because of a bizarre injury. This created an opportunity for Holloway to take advantage, but weight-cutting at such short notice proved to be an impossible task to overcome. Looking back on the missed opportunity, Holloway was filled with immense regret and pain.
The fight that never happened, man, this one hurts, this one hurts a man, I wish we got to… I know it’s a short notice fight…I mean things happen for a reason right and I am a true believer in that I mean we didn’t get the Khabib fight…but they call another man Khabib 2.0…but this one hurts a lot, man.
Max Holloway via Exclusive Interview for TNT Sport
Speaking with TNT Sports, the 32-year-old did a complete recap on his career, including the first point-to-ground moment. Max Holloway has faced grueling competition in the past 12 years and will compete in his 15th five-round fight at UFC 308. Itching to face Team Khabib’s Islam Makhachev in a super fight, BMF Champ wants the champ-champ status.
He even claimed the 155lbs champion is allegedly ducking him, ever since he broke into the top 5. For now, Holoway has a rare chance to hold both UFC and BMF titles simultaneously. It can only happen if he wins at UFC 308. Makhachev is widely known as Khabib 2.0, which intrigues him after missing out on Nurmagomedov at UFC 223.
Max Holloway wants to face Islam Makhachev after UFC 308
Regardless of the outcome of UFC 308, Holloway has plenty of options on the table. The Hawaiian native has broken into the top 5 of two weight classes and can compete for two world titles. This includes a chance to face Islam Makhachev in the future.
Speaking with Demetrious Johnson on his podcast, Holloway touched upon his wish to fight Khabib 2.0, i.e. Islam Makhchev. His wish to face Nurmagomedov might be impossible at the moment, but this other fight is certainly on the cards. The Hawaiian star looks forward to the super fight.
We had that fight booked with Khabib a while back…they call Islam Khabib 2.0. I want all the taste; you know? I want all the smoke. It’d be an honor to fight that guy, as I am trying to etch my name in the history books, you know?
Max Holloway via Mighty cast
Moreover, Holloway recently was called out for a dream BMF vs BMF fight by Jorge Masvidal. This could prove to be an exciting bout, only if Dana White agrees to book the duo. For now, Holloway has a monumental task at hand against Ilia Topuria, who has vowed to finish him. The title fight against Makhachev might get fast-tracked if he emerges victorious against Topuria.
