Tsarukyan's Shocking Pick: Islam Makhachev vs. Prime Khabib - Who's Better?

The Makhachev-Nurmagomedov Debate: A Tale of Legacy and Evolution in MMA

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:50am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a mixed martial arts competition, with overlapping planes and shapes representing the dynamic movements and strategies of the fighters.The evolving landscape of MMA showcases the contrasting legacies of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev, sparking a debate on the meaning of greatness in the sport.Chicago Today

The world of mixed martial arts (MMA) thrives on debates, and few are as heated as the comparison between Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov. Recently, Arman Tsarukyan threw his hat into the ring, choosing Makhachev as the 'better' fighter between the two. But what does this really mean? And why does it matter? Let's dive in.

Why it matters

The Makhachev-Nurmagomedov debate isn't just about two fighters—it's about the direction of the sport. Khabib's era was defined by dominance in a single division, while Makhachev's is about versatility and expansion. This reflects a broader trend in MMA, where fighters are no longer content with mastering one weight class and are seeking to prove themselves across divisions.

The details

Khabib Nurmagomedov retired undefeated, a feat that cements his place as one of the greatest fighters in MMA history. However, he never ventured beyond 155 pounds, leaving room for speculation about his potential success in another division. Islam Makhachev, on the other hand, has taken a different path, becoming a two-division champion and showcasing his versatility and adaptability. The dynamic between Makhachev and Khabib's mentorship adds another layer of complexity to the debate.

  • Makhachev dominated Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 to become a double champion.
  • Tsarukyan was scheduled to fight Makhachev for the title in 2025 but withdrew from the bout.

The players

Islam Makhachev

A two-division champion in MMA, known for his well-rounded skills and versatility across weight classes.

Khabib Nurmagomedov

A former undefeated UFC lightweight champion, considered one of the greatest fighters in MMA history.

Arman Tsarukyan

A professional MMA fighter who has competed against and lost to Makhachev, but believes Makhachev is the better fighter between him and Khabib.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Makhachev's well-roundedness is a key factor, and I think this is spot on. MMA is a sport that rewards adaptability, and Makhachev's ability to excel in multiple divisions showcases his growth as a fighter.”

— Arman Tsarukyan, MMA Fighter

What’s next

With Makhachev now holding gold at 170 pounds, the chances of a rematch between him and Tsarukyan seem slim. This leaves Tsarukyan in a tricky position, as he would have to pursue a title shot in a division dominated by a fighter he's already lost to.

The takeaway

The Makhachev-Nurmagomedov debate is not about who's greater, but rather what greatness means in an ever-changing sport. Khabib's legacy is about perfection in one division, while Makhachev's is about pushing boundaries across two. Both approaches have their merits and have shaped MMA in profound ways.