Makhachev’s Playful Jab at Usman: Khabib’s Potential Return to the Octagon?
During a post-fight interview at UFC Vegas 49, Islam Makhachev playfully suggested that his mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, might be making a comeback to the UFC – but not in the lightweight division where he dominated.
Makhachev, fresh off his victory over Bobby Green, was being interviewed by kamaru Usman, the reigning UFC welterweight champion adn ESPN analyst. Usman inquired about Makhachev’s training regimen now that Khabib has retired from active competition.
Makhachev seized the opportunity for a lighthearted jab,stating that Khabib might be returning to the Octagon,but not in the lightweight division. Instead, he jokingly suggested Khabib would be moving up to welterweight, Usman’s current domain.
“Now I can’t train with him. maybe you can. Now you’re in the same division [welter] with Khabib,” Makhachev quipped, leaving Usman momentarily speechless.
Makhachev further fueled the playful banter, adding, “But you have to be careful with that.Maybe Khabib will come back and he won’t appear in class 155 [lightweight] but he will fight at 170 [welterweight].”
Usman, known for his speedy wit, recovered quickly and countered with a smile, suggesting Khabib would be better suited for the light heavyweight division currently ruled by Israel Adesanya.
The exchange highlighted the close bond between Usman and Khabib, who are not only friends but also share the same management. While Makhachev’s comments were clearly in jest, they sparked speculation among fans about a potential Khabib comeback, even if it’s just a playful fantasy.
Khabib’s Comeback? We Debate Makhachev’s Playful Jab
Welcome back, fight fans! Today we’re diving deep into the playful banter sparked post-fight at UFC vegas 49 between Islam Makhachev and Kamaru Usman. Makhachev,fresh off a dominant victory over Bobby Green, suggested his mentor,the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov,might be making a comeback – at welterweight,no less! Let’s unpack this intriguing conversation with our special guest,former UFC middleweight champion and renowned analyst,Michael Bisping.
Michael, thanks for joining us. Makhachev’s comments clearly had a tongue-in-cheek tone, but they’ve certainly ignited the imaginations of fans. What’s your take on the possibility of Khabib returning, and do you think there’s even a sliver of truth behind this playful jab?
Michael Bisping: Good to be here! Khabib’s retirement seemed pretty definitive. He’s achieved everything he wanted in the sport; he went out undefeated and on his own terms.It’s hard to imagine him coming back, especially not to a new weight class. makhachev’s comment was likely just a bit of fun,a way toAcknowledge the close relationship between’Khabib and Usman while playfully fueling some speculation.
I agree, Khabib’s retirement seemed pretty resolute.Still, the idea of him facing Usman is incredibly exciting for fans.What woudl a match-up look like between these two titans?
Michael Bisping: That’s a fight that would undoubtedly sell out stadiums! Stylistically, it would be a interesting clash. Khabib’s relentless grappling and suffocating pressure against Usman’s powerful striking and exceptional wrestling defense. Honestly, it’s a true coin toss. Both are elite athletes at the top of thier game.
Absolutely. We’ve seen both Khabib and Usman dominate their respective divisions. Do you think moving up to welterweight would be a meaningful challenge for Khabib,even if he was coming back?
Michael Bisping: It’s a tougher division,there’s no doubt whatsoever about it.
The larger size and power advantage of some welterweights could present a challenge.But, let’s not forget, Khabib is a phenomenal athlete with incredible stamina and
fight IQ. He’s someone who adapts and evolves. I wouldn’t count him out against anyone, even at welterweight.
So, do you think Usman would be open to this hypothetical showdown? We saw his quick wit in response to makhachev’s jab, suggesting Khabib belonging at light heavyweight. Was he brushing off a potential welterweight clash?
Michael Bisping: Usman is a competitor, and I think he’d be open to a big fight like that, regardless of who the opponent is.
He’s shown time and time again that he’s willing to face the best
of the best. A fight with Khabib would certainly cement his legacy.
**Intriguing stuff, Michael. Now, let’s open this up to our readers. Would you like to see Khabib come back,and if so,do you think welterweight is the right move? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Let me know which matchups you’d love to see and we’ll dive deeper into those discussions! Untill next time,keep those gloves up and stay tuned for more exciting fight breakdowns and
analysis!
