Khabib Nurmagomedov explains what Islam Makhachev has to do to become the GOAT

Khabib Nurmagomedov believes Islam Makhachev has the potential to join the conversation of greatest MMA fighters of all time, but acknowledged that time is working against his childhood friend and training partner.

Makhachev, the reigning welterweight and former lightweight champion, defends his 170-pound title against Ian Machado Garry in the main event of UFC 330 on Saturday. A victory would make him only the second fighter to successfully defend UFC titles across two weight classes and would extend his UFC winning streak to 17 consecutive bouts, breaking Anderson Silva's record. The 28-1 fighter currently ranks No. 1 in MMA Fighting's pound-for-pound standings.

In an interview with Lex Fridman, Nurmagomedov was asked about his own GOAT status and whether Makhachev could eventually claim the title. Nurmagomedov deflected personal accolades but voiced enthusiasm about Makhachev's prospects. "If Jon Jones is there, why can't Islam be there? If Demetrious Johnson is there with 11 title defenses, why can't Islam be there?" Nurmagomedov said. He expressed a desire for Makhachev to break records held by Jones, Johnson, and Georges St-Pierre.

However, Nurmagomedov cautioned that age presents a significant challenge. "Islam has a chance, but time is starting to run out a little," he said, noting that lighter weight classes—where Makhachev competes at 155 and 170 pounds—take a heavier physical toll than heavier divisions. Makhachev turns 35 in October, and Nurmagomedov stressed that reaction speed and athleticism diminish faster at smaller weights.

Nurmagomedov credited their shared training environment under his late father, legendary coach Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, for Makhachev's rise. He described a generational chain of excellence spanning since 2003, with fighters developing through sparring and mentorship. "Islam was always behind me," Nurmagomedov explained. "Now others are following. Islam, Usman, Amru, and other guys. This cycle never ends."