5 reasons why the UFC must book a matchup between Islam Makhachev and Conor McGregor down the line

#2. Islam Makhachev losing could result in Khabib Nurmagomedov's return

Islam Makhachev's close friend and mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, announced his retirement from the sport last year. The announcement came after he retained his lightweight strap for a third time against Justin Gaethje at UFC 254.

In an emotional post-fight interview, Khabib cited his father's death as the reason for his abrupt departure. Despite several attempts by UFC president Dana White to bring him back, the former lightweight champion stands firm on his decision to stay retired.

29-0.A legacy that will never be equaled... #UFC254 pic.twitter.com/yck8dXSBQK

— UFC (@ufc) October 24, 2020

Khabib Nurmagomedov has always been vocal about his title aspirations for Islam Makhachev, who is widely considered to be his prodigy. These aspirations are also shared by coaches and fighters at the American Kickboxing Academy, where both Dagestani athletes currently train.

As AKA awaits a fourth championship, Conor McGregor could derail the Makhachev hype train with an emphatic victory him. This might finally result in Khabib Nurmagomedov making a return to the octagon to settle scores for his friend.

As all other ploys to bring 'The Eagle' back continue to fail, a matchup between Conor McGregor and Islam Makhachev definitely seems worth a try.

#1. A big payday for both fighters

Despite having lost two fights in a row, Conor McGregor has definitely not lost any of his star power. The Irishman continues to generate an enormous number of pay-per-view buys, with UFC 264 reportedly hitting 1.8 million.

What makes the potential fight against Islam Makhachev even more lucrative is the involvement of McGregor's former rival Khabib Nurmagomedov. Having taken his coaching responsibilities seriously, Nurmagomedov would likely be present in Makhachev's corner.

The most purchased Pay-Per-View in UFC history.The 3rd most purchased Pay-Per-View in combat sports history.UFC 229 headlined by Conor McGregor & Khabib from two years ago today sold 2.5 Million PPV's.If the stars align, just imagine how many PPV's a rematch would do. pic.twitter.com/zsX21nOAzP

— MMA History Today (@MMAHistoryToday) October 7, 2020

This is bound to add to the fight's appeal as the rivalry between Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov is cherished by fight fans. McGregor’s grudge match with Khabib Nurmagomedov remains the most lucrative fight in MMA history as the pair clocked up 2.4 million buys at UFC 229.