Khabib Nurmagomedov’s storied UFC career is the stuff of legend. The Dagestani fighter retired undefeated at 29-0, having defended the lightweight title against three of the toughest contenders in the division—Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje. Yet one lingering question among fans remains: why didn’t "The Eagle" ever test the waters in the welterweight division?
Despite his renowned wrestling prowess and unrivaled octagon control, Nurmagomedov never pursued a second belt at 170lbs, a move that many double champions like Georges St-Pierre, Daniel Cormier, and Conor McGregor attempted. Now, a top American welterweight believes he has the answer—and it’s not just about strategy.
Buckley shares honest take on Khabib Nurmagomedov’s weight class decision
UFC welterweight Joaquin Buckley recently shared a candid assessment of Khabib’s career trajectory during a conversation with former flyweight champ Demetrious Johnson on his YouTube channel. Buckley, who headlines UFC Atlanta this weekend, didn’t hold back when discussing why Khabib may have avoided stepping into the heavier division.
“Khabib was smart, though,” Buckley stated. “He knew he couldn’t handle guys at 170lbs.”
Pointing to Khabib’s physical limitations, Buckley made a pointed observation: “Them arms was too short,” referencing the Dagestani’s 70-inch reach—a significant disadvantage when matched against longer fighters like himself. Buckley himself boasts a 76-inch reach.
“He don’t get to nobody,” he added, sparking laughter from Johnson. The statement suggests that while Khabib Nurmagomedov’s grappling might dominate at lightweight, he might have struggled against the physical attributes and striking threats of top-tier welterweights.
Islam Makhachev set to do what Khabib didn’t
Interestingly, Khabib’s protégé and current UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev is on a path to accomplish what his mentor never did. Makhachev is scheduled to challenge for the welterweight title against Jack Della Maddalena later this year—a bout that could see him become a rare double champion.
Buckley praised Makhachev’s ambition, stating, “Much respect for Islam for actually going up, moving up in weight, really wanting to challenge yourself.”
The contrast between Khabib Nurmagomedov’s conservative weight-class management and Makhachev’s bold move up has become a topic of hot debate among MMA fans. While Khabib’s record remains untouched, the upcoming welterweight clash will determine if his heir apparent can truly surpass the master.