Khabib Nurmagomedov sends Islam Makhachev emotional message ahead of ‘historic’ UFC 322

Khabib Nurmagomedov isn’t exactly known for his sentimental moments, but he surprised fans with a message of support for his charge today.

For years, Khabib has been best friends with Islam Makhachev, with the pair helping to guide each other to UFC lightweight gold. Next month at UFC 322 in Madison Square Garden, the latter will get the chance to go a step further than his mentor ever did by winning a second title.

He faces Jack Della Maddalena for the welterweight belt, and would become the first member of the Nurmagomedov team to become a UFC double champion.

Khabib Nurmagomedov posts sentimental Islam Makhachev message

Since long before their days atop the UFC lightweight division, Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev have been inseparable. They both began training at Khabib’s dad Abdulmanap’s gym in Dagestan, where they were turned into some of the greatest fighters of all time.

Since Abdulmanap’s passing and Khabib taking over the role as head trainer for the team, Makhachev has gone on to take the lightweight title and the top pound-for-pound spot in the entirety of the UFC. Now after a record-breaking reign, he is moving up for a second belt.