5 current UFC lightweights Khabib Nurmagomedov would possibly struggle against

#2. Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Charles Oliveira

Could the current lightweight champion defeat his predecessor?

Charles Oliveira was the man to claim the UFC lightweight championship after it was vacated by Khabib Nurmagomedov. He has looked sensational in recent bouts and has not lost since 2017.

Oliveira is extremely good at finding submissions off of his back. This could be incredibly useful in a fight against Khabib as it is very likely he will find himself getting taken down at some point in the fight.

However, Nurmagomedov's Dagestani style of grappling appears to still be effective against jiu jitsu specialists like Oliveira. His pressure on top could still lead to Nurmagomedov coming out on top in this one.

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#1. Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Islam Makhachev

UFC Fight Night: Makhachev v Moises

While you can pretty much guarantee that we will never see this bout, just imagine what a spectacle it would be. They are two of the greatest grapplers the sport has ever seen and the student vs. master dynamic would add another level of intrigue.

While Nurmagomedov throughout his career appeared to be the superior fighter to Islam Makhachev, has now changed roles and may not be pushing himself to the same level as his student who continues to compete regularly.

Perhaps ring-rust could be a factor if Nurmagomedov had to shake off a few cobwebs early, Makhachev might be able to take advantage. With that being said, Makhachev might also struggle with not having Khabib in his corner as coach.