Following his impressive knockout of Alexander Volkanovski, fans and experts have been buzzing about Islam Makhachev’s striking prowess. His advanced wrestling skills already make him a formidable opponent, but his striking coach, Magomedgadzhi Bagandov, believes there’s more to Islam Makhachev’s game.
Unique Fighting Style of Dustin Poirier
Islam Makhachevs coach acknowledges that Dustin Poirier possesses a “unique” fighting style. While confident that Makhachev is the superior striker, the coach emphasizes that reckless engagement could be dangerous.
He states, “I’ve been following Poirier for a long time. In terms of striking technique, he has a unique fighting style. Islam doesn’t just hold his own against him; if he doesn’t engage recklessly, Islam surpasses him.”
“Even if you put wrestling aside, in my opinion, Islam can outbox him in pure boxing and in Muay Thai. There are no aspects in which Islam lags behind.”
Islam Makhachev’s coach believes that Islam’s striking is superior to Poirier’s:
“Islam doesn’t just hold his own against [Dustin]; if he doesn’t engage recklessly, Islam surpasses him.
Even if you put wrestling aside, in my opinion, Islam can outbox him in pure boxing and in… pic.twitter.com/qIdS9CjnZr
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) May 25, 2024
The Danger of Toe-to-Toe with Poirier
Bagandov’s caution is well-founded. Poirier’s elite boxing skills have been evident in his battles with top fighters. Frenchman Benoit Saint Denis learned this the hard way when he stood and traded with Poirier. The same fate befell Michael Chandler, Eddie Alvarez, Conor McGregor, and Dan Hooker. Poirier’s striking ability is undeniable.
Khabib’s Influence and Islam Makhachev’s Strategy
With Khabib Nurmagomedov now part of Islam Makhachev’s training camp, the Dagestani team aims to replicate the successful strategies used against Poirier in the past. Facing a Dagestani fighter is no easy task, given their wrestling-heavy style. However, Makhachev combines his wrestling skills with striking agility, making him a well-rounded threat.
As Makhachev prepares to defend his lightweight title against Poirier, the stakes are high. Poirier, too, seeks to capture the belt and cement his legacy. Whether he retires after this fight or not, it’s a pivotal moment in his career.
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