Conor McGregor has once more lauded his arch-rival Khabib Nurmagomedov’s protege Islam Makhachev. The Irishman believes Makhachev should be ranked ahead of both Daniel Cormier and “The Eagle” in the all-time greatest conversation.

Two-division champion and pound-for-pound king Makhachev is set to defend his 170-pound strap next month at UFC 330 against Ian Machado Garry.

Meanwhile, this weekend, Conor McGregor will return to the octagon after a five-year layoff to headline UFC 329 in a rematch against Max Holloway.

Conor McGregor Explains Why 5 Years Away From The Octagon Will Be His Biggest Advantage at UFC 329. [Images via UFC]

Conor McGregor praises Islam Makhachev, urges him not to retire anytime soon

During a sit-down with Complex, after blasting Khabib Nurmagomedov, Conor McGregor praised his archrival’s longtime friend and teammate, Islam Makhachev, who has registered the most title defenses in UFC lightweight history before moving up to 170 pounds and winning a second belt. Notably, Makhachev is on a 16-fight UFC win streak and has four finishes in six title bouts. While praising Makhachev, “The Notorious” said:

“He’s [Islam Makhachev] above Khabib. Finishes, body of work, both divisions. For sure he is. Still at it… There’s a lot left in that boy, and he should recognize that and keep going. I have him above [Daniel Cormier and Khabib Nurmagomedov].

Check out Conor McGregor’s comments about Islam Makhachev below:

In the past, McGregor had also shown interest in fighting Makhachev down the line as he aims to capture the “triple crown.” The Dubliner had told Bloody Elbow:

“I’m self-motivated and I for sure want a crack at that belt. I for sure want a crack at that 170-pound belt to go for the triple crown… It would be a good fight [Me vs. Makhachev], a good scrap. Southpaw vs southpaw.”

Check out Conor McGregor’s comments below:

Even Makhachev’s coach Javier Mendez likes the idea of a potential Makhachev vs. McGregor superfight. If both fighters are successful in their upcoming outings, this pipe dream can soon turn into reality.

During the same interview, “The Notorious” also made his own GOAT list.

Check it out below:

Subham

Subham is a writer and editor with experience spanning MMA, Health & Fitness, true crime, and pop culture. He has previously worked with Sportskeeda MMA, SK True Crime, and SK Pop, Movies, and Shows.
He currently covers the UFC for LowKickMMA and MMA Pros Picks.