Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev are two of the most successful and popular fighters in the UFC. They are both from the republic of Dagestan, a predominantly Muslim region in Russia. They are both practitioners of Islam, the second-largest religion in the world. But is Islam related to Khabib in any other way besides their faith and their homeland? Are they brothers, cousins, or just friends? Let’s find out.
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Childhood friends and training partners
Islam and Khabib grew up together in Dagestan, where they started training in martial arts at a young age. They were both mentored by Khabib’s late father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, who was a renowned coach and master of combat sambo, a Russian martial art. Abdulmanap taught them the skills and values that would shape their careers and lives.
According to sitename EssentiallySports, Islam Makhachev has been a longtime teammate and friend of UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov. Islam has stated numerous times to the media that he aspires to be like his friend Nurmagomedov, and the two have a great deal of respect for one another. ‘The Eagle’ and Islam have always been present for each other’s fights to support each other in their corner.
Similar fighting styles and records
Islam and Khabib have very similar fighting styles, which are based on their sambo background. They are both known for their dominant wrestling, grappling, and ground-and-pound skills, which have overwhelmed many opponents in the octagon. They are also both very durable, resilient, and disciplined fighters, who rarely make mistakes or lose focus.
Islam and Khabib have also achieved impressive records in their MMA careers. Khabib holds the record for the longest unbeaten streak in UFC history with 29 wins and no losses. He retired as the undisputed lightweight champion and one of the greatest fighters of all time. Islam is currently the UFC lightweight champion, having won the title against Charles Oliveira at UFC 280 in Abu Dhabi last month. He is on a 11-fight winning streak and has looked unstoppable on his way up the pound-for-pound rankings.
More than brothers
Despite their similar appearances, Islam and Khabib are not biologically related. They are not brothers or cousins, but they share a bond that is stronger than blood. They are like brothers in spirit, who have grown up together, trained together, fought together, and supported each other through thick and thin.
They are also both devout Muslims, who follow the teachings and practices of their faith. They pray five times a day, fast during Ramadan, give charity to the poor, and avoid alcohol and drugs. They also respect their elders, their family, and their culture. They are proud of their Dagestani heritage and identity.
Islam and Khabib are more than just fighters. They are role models, leaders, and ambassadors for their sport, their religion, and their people. They have inspired millions of fans around the world with their skills, achievements, and character. They have shown that Islam is not related to Khabib only by name, but by heart as well.