- Islam Makhachev confirmed the arrival of Khabib Nurmagomedov in Newark to corner him at UFC 302
- Makhachev won his last two fights without “The Eagle” in his corner
Khabib Nurmagomedov traveled to Newark to corner Islam Makhachev against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302.
The Eagle is back
Makhchev dropped some big news ahead of his title defense at UFC 302. While signing some posters, the reigning lightweight champion confirmed that Nurmagomedov has arrived in Newark, New Jersey to join him as corner man.
“News? Eagle is [has] landed in Jersey City,” Makhachev said in a video on the UFC’s Instagram page. “He’s going to be in my corner. Honestly, I’m very happy because he’s one of the best corner, coach, brother, friend.”
No Khabib, no problem
Nurmagomedov has always been a great mentor to Makhachev. In fact, he regularly cornered Islam in his UFC fights but “The Eagle” wasn’t present in Makhachev’s last two title defenses against Alexander Volkanovski.
Even without the presence and guidance of Nurmagomedov, Makhachev was able to defend his title in both bouts. Makhachev even scored one of the most savage knockouts in UFC history in his rematch with Volk.
Now that Nurmagomedov is back, Makhachev will be having the advantage of receiving some hints and tips from a fighter who has beaten Poirier in the past.
Makhachev will try to defend his lightweight strap for the third time. On the other hand, “The Diamond” is hoping to finally become a UFC champion as he approaches the tail end of his legendary MMA career.
UFC 302 will take place this weekend at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.
