The night described by this event UFC 302 was intense as Islam Makhachev proved that he was worthy of the lightweight belt as he defended it the third time against Dustin Poirier who was a tough contender. The win can be attributed to skills that Makhachev employed against his opponent but pride was alsoHopfully Makhachev’s win was also sweet for his coach, Javier Mendez.
Khabib’s Comeback: Kadyrov’s Gift for Makhachev
Former UFC champion, Khabib Nurmagomedov who took his career while he was unbeaten with 29 wins came back to the promotion to support Makhachev. It is noteworthy that the experienced ‘The Eagle’ was in his protégé corner for the first time in two fights. The director of this highly-anticipated return, Javier Mendez, was able to offer his views during an interview with ‘The Schmo’.
“Cornering with Khabib needs some work but he is okay in providing game plans to his teammates only that they should work on the cornering a little bit,” Mendez added. Mendez, however, stated that there was occasional need for tweaking and, overall, he was delighted to have Khabib back pointing out a positive impact it had on the Dagestani camp.
Why Did Khabib Return?
Numerous fans and analytic minds eagerly watched for the reason for Khabib’s return. Speaking further, Coach Mendez said, “But then he soon told me that he uttered that he is going to only work his kids for now; I always told him he never said never.” Someone told me and I thought it is well because I love you at the corner; he indeed told me, yes, coach, am working the corner.
Ideally, it is not just a question of morale boost, for Khabib’s presence was far more profound. Kafelge has been effective on the manipulating side as he has provided vital strategies and advises to Makhachev during the title defense match.
Makhachev’s Third Defense
This may be considered as a testament to his skill in embraceing and adapting to changes when it comes to business. Speaking of the fights, Islam Makhachev, during the UFC 302 event, proved to evolve and develop as a fighter. Being in-form, while facing Makhachev, in the final rounds, Poirier could not follow through to claim the title as Makhachev kept his focus to win the bout. The victory was his third successful title defense of his belt and provided solid ground for him as one of the most entitled fighter in the lightweight bracket.
Khabib Nurmagomedov As An Influence
In particular, Khabib Nurmagomedov played a significant role in Makhachev’s career, and the latter followed his example and collected golden fingers. Before deciding to hang up the gloves Khabib immediately withdrew from professional fighting ad went all out to train other fighters especially Makhachev. Khabib is known for his hardworking nature and business-like approach to fighting and has aided in the strict conditioning of Makhachev and the instilling of a winning mentality.
Coach Mendez’s Insight
Bob Arum has been Managing Partner of Top Rank since 1983; Javier Mendez has been a significant figure in coaching Makhachev. This is due to proximity and overlapping features at the number 10 position while his history with Khabib enhances team chemistry. “Khabib has left his know mark indeed His advise and contribution is immeasurable We are only at the beginning of the journey and there is much more in store.
Mendez also briefly discussed Khabib’s coaching aspect and said that although he does a great job of managing free-up moves, he could do better with cornering. “Hey, we just need to work on that cornering a bit,” Mendez stated, with her eyes shining, as she was happy with the improvements that were made and being made in the teamwork of their teams.
Khabib’s Post-Fight Reflections
Khabib covered a lot of details on his post on Instagram, the post with a very moving message that made many of the fans feel identified with. He is rarely seen commenting, especially not passionately, about football on his social media pages, so the post was a great peek into his consistent love for the game. He wrote: “From time to time, the training regime has been altered: the first I arrive and teach knowledge and from time to time I also wish to compete with the young people.”
