In a recent discussion with his coach Firas Zahabi on Tristar Gym’s YouTube channel, Georges St-Pierre shared his thoughts on a potential fight between Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov. The former UFC champion highlighted the strengths and differences between the two fighters, making it clear that it would be a close and intriguing match-up.
Khabib Nurmagomedov vs Islam Makhachev, A Hypothetical Showdown
Khabib Nurmagomedov, known for his unbeaten record and dominant ground game, retired in 2020 with a perfect 28-0 record. His protégé, Islam Makhachev, has since taken the UFC lightweight division by storm, successfully defending his title three times. St-Pierre believes that while Khabib might have a more solid game in terms of positioning and ground-and-pound, Makhachev has a superior submission game.
“Khabib might have a more solid game in terms of positioning, in terms of ground and pound, in terms of takedown,” St-Pierre said. “On the other hand, I think Makhachev has a better submission game. I think he’s more aggressive and more opportunistic on the submission side.”
St-Pierre also broke down Islam Makhachev’s viral “golf swing” takedown against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302. The move, which led to a D’Arce choke submission, was praised for its creativity and effectiveness. However, St-Pierre noted that it’s a risky move and should only be used as a last resort.
“One of my favorite moves because when guys put a lot of weight on their legs, you try to lift them by their center line and use the golf swing so it works very well,” St-Pierre explained. “That’s a risky move, it’s a last resort thing.”
The pound-for-pound rankings have sparked heated debate, with many urging for Islam Makhachev to be ranked first, while others, including UFC CEO Dana White, have supported Jon Jones. St-Pierre, however, praised Makhachev, calling him the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world due to his recent performances.
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