Undefeated UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov retired on a 29-0 record after defending his lightweight championship against some of the division’s toughest competition, including Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje. Yet even with all his success at 155 lbs, one lingering question remains in the minds of fans: Why did Khabib never go up to the welterweight class (170 lbs) to pursue a second title?
Several UFC greats, such as Georges St-Pierre, Daniel Cormier, and Conor McGregor, have tried their hands at upper weight divisions in a bid to win double championship titles. Nevertheless, Khabib Nurmagomedov never made a move to the welterweight division, something that still intrigues fight enthusiasts.
UFC Welterweight Joaquin Buckley’s Reaction to Khabib’s Choice
Top UFC welterweight Joaquin Buckley recently weighed in on why Khabib Nurmagomedov did not proceed to the 170lbs division in an interview with former flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson. The two engaged in the conversation on Johnson’s YouTube channel, where Buckley, who is headlining UFC Atlanta this weekend, shared an honest view on the situation.
Buckley’s Explanation: Physical Limitations Played a Role
Buckley feels that Khabib’s physical limitations were one of the central reasons he opted to remain at lightweight. The American fighter made a pointed observation regarding Khabib’s 70-inch reach, which he felt was a drawback when fighting taller, longer welterweight fighters.
“Khabib was wise,” Buckley opined. “He realized he couldn’t deal with guys at 170 lbs. Them arms were too short.” Buckley, who himself boasts a 76-inch reach, pointed out that Khabib’s wrestling and submission grappling style were beneficial at 155 lbs, but would have been a lot more difficult against the physicality of top welterweights.
“They reach him,” Buckley added, suggesting that Khabib Nurmagomedov’s usual strategy of closing the distance may have been less effective against taller, stand-up-heavy fighters in the welterweight class. Islam Makhachev and his transformation into a welterweight are an interesting topic.
Although Khabib never transitioned to welterweight, his protégé Islam Makhachev is all but confirmed to challenge for the UFC welterweight title later this year. Makhachev, the reigning UFC lightweight champion, will fight Jack Della Maddalena in a much-anticipated bout that can potentially turn him into the next double champion of the UFC.
Buckley recognized Makhachev’s move up in weight, saying, “A lot of respect for Islam for actually going up, moving up in weight, genuinely wanting to push yourself.” That Makhachev is willing to fight in a higher weight division is different from his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, whose career was characterized by rigorous weight class control.
The Debate: Khabib’s Conservative Approach vs Makhachev’s Ambition
The difference between Khabib’s strategic, conservative career decisions and Islam Makhachev’s aggressive move up in weight has ignited huge controversy among MMA fans. As Khabib Nurmagomedov continues to be undefeated and sports his legendary lightweight record, Makhachev’s next welterweight battle might pave the way for a new chapter in the legacy of the Eagle’s fight clan.
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Strategic Career Choices
Khabib Nurmagomedov absolutely did not move up to 170 lbs in part because he realized his physical limits and could have a hard time versus taller, stronger fighters at welterweight. He cemented his legacy as one of the best with his unbeaten record and one-sided dominance of the lightweight division.
Yet, with Islam Makhachev himself set on double-champion status, it’s to be seen whether the baton is passed from him in the same manner as was passed to Khabib and whether Makhachev will be able to best his mentor’s legacy in the welterweight division.
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