Khabib or Islam: Who is better? Javier Mendez gives his take

28 March 2024

Legendary MMA coach Javier Mendez refutes claims that Islam Makhachev surpasses Khabib Nurmagomedov in terms of danger, despite acknowledging Makhachev's superior skill set.

Former UFC champion Daniel Cormier, who shares a training history with Mendez at American Kickboxing Academy, recently touted Makhachev as more menacing than Nurmagomedov during his prime. However, Mendez vehemently disagrees with this assessment.

"OK, he’s more skilled in multiple areas, yes," Mendez asserted to MMA Mania. "More dangerous? Nobody is more dangerous, in my opinion, in the world than Khabib. Nobody, no one, I don’t care. I haven’t seen one that is more dangerous than Khabib in the sense of danger. I mean, you can’t do nothing to him. It’s very difficult to do anything to him."

Mendez emphasized Nurmagomedov's unparalleled durability, highlighting his indomitable chin that withstood the blows of numerous opponents throughout his undefeated career spanning 29 professional fights. Mendez reminisced on the rare occasion when Michael Johnson briefly rocked Nurmagomedov, underscoring the Russian's resilience in the face of adversity.

"Khabib is the most dangerous because, first of all, in my opinion and I’m being biased because I love him to death, he’s got the hardest chin I’ve ever seen on anybody," Mendez continued. "He’s been hit. The only person who rocked him a little bit, a tiny bit, was Michael Johnson.

"Michael Johnson hit him with one hell of a shot and other than that, no one else has hit him with anything. Justin Gaethje’s hit him, but did nothing. He steamrolls everybody. I think ‘DC’ probably meant more skilled, yes that’s correct. But, more dangerous? I don’t think there’s ever been a man more dangerous than Khabib."

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Mendez's remarks underscore the enduring legacy of Nurmagomedov, whose dominance and resilience remain unparalleled in the sport of mixed martial arts.