KHABIB NURMAGOMEDOV believes rising UFC star Islam Makhachev is a better fighter than him, and he says he would like to see Charles Oliveira fight his friend.
Makhachev, a 29-0 undefeated UFC legend, believes he could be the "greatest lightweight ever".
He must defeat Oliveira, and Khabib asked the UFC for permission to give his protégé that chance.
Khabib spoke to TMZ about Makhachev's potential as the greatest lightweight ever. It's almost like this fight is a legacy fight for Islam, you know?
"Why he should fight vs. Charles Oliveira because he has an 11-fight win streak, and UFC never makes like this fight.
"11 win streak vs. 10. It is supposed to be Tony [Ferguson] versus me.
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It never happened. Now, we have Islam vs. Charles. These guys should fight."
Khabib said, "If Islam beat Charles, then he beats young blood like from the young generation. We have a lot young fighters in lightweight division ranking.
"Beneil [Dariush], Islam defeated Charles, Islam beat three other fighters, he could become the greatest lightweight ever.
He has the potential. Although he's only thirty years old, UFC must give him a chance."
SIGN UP DEALS AND FREE BETS - THE BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERINGS33-8 Oliveira was stripped of the lightweight belt by Justin Gaethje the day before.
However, Gaethje, the submission specialist, won his 11th consecutive win.
Makhachev has won 10 consecutive matches and has been unstoppable ever since his last professional loss in 2015.
Drew Dober and Dan Hooker are his opponents. He is currently the UFC's No4 lightweight champion.
