Islam Makhachev embracing role as ‘the subsequent Khabib’ in advance of UFC 259 — ‘I like that’

Top Combating Championship (UFC) lightweight up-and-comer Islam Makhachev will make his Octagon return towards longtime 155-pound veteran Drew Dober as section of the UFC 259 pay-for every-check out (PPV) celebration this Sat. evening (March 6) in Las Vegas, Nevada.

And even even though UFC 259 functions a few championship title fights, Makhachev will be receiving further particular focus when he faces the streaking Nebraskan, in part mainly because the battle athletics group has dubbed him “the future Khabib.”

As in undefeated light-weight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov.

“I like that,” Makhachev stated during the UFC 259 media day (transcribed by MMA Combating). “Because Khabib is a pretty superior man, a champion, that is why I really don’t care about this. That is why I’m good with it. You know this is drive for me. For the reason that now folks chat about me. A good deal of individuals explain to me ‘you’re going to be next, you are likely to be winner,’ that is why I have to practice a lot more. Just schooling. Which is it.”

Makhachev (18-1) jumped out to a great 12- report, which involves his UFC debut in opposition to Leo Kuntz. Then came an upset reduction to Adriano Martins at UFC 192, a momentary setback that enthusiastic the Dagestani bruiser to earn his up coming six fights.

And with Nurmagomedov retired, the 155-pound area is extensive open.

“I’m quite energized when I will struggle with these men for the reason that I just want to verify my expertise,” Makhachev said about dealing with the higher echelon of the division. “All my existence, I’m teaching with the champion. That is why I don’t believe they’re likely to give me a trouble, these men.”

He’ll 1st need to have to get by means of Dober (23-9), winner of a few straight.