In a rare and heartfelt interview, UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev sat down with his longtime friend, mentor, and former training partner Daniel Cormier — and the result was a conversation full of insight, respect, and unfiltered honesty.

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Broadcast on “DC & RC”, ESPN’s popular MMA podcast, the interview gave fans an inside look at the mindset of the champion, his rise from Dagestan, his relationship with Khabib Nurmagomedov, and what’s next in his dominant career.

Brothers in Arms: From AKA to the Top

From the beginning of the interview, the chemistry between Cormier and Makhachev was undeniable. Both men trained together for years at American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) in San Jose, and it showed in their familiarity and mutual respect.

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“You’ve always been quiet, always stayed in the background,” Cormier said. “Now, you’re the guy everyone is chasing. How does that feel?”

Makhachev smiled and replied humbly:

“I’m still the same. I just have the belt now. Nothing changes — training, discipline, focus. I have the same team, same brothers.”

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Life Without Khabib in His Corner

One of the most emotional parts of the conversation came when DC asked about Khabib Nurmagomedov’s absence in Makhachev’s corner in recent fights. Khabib stepped away from MMA completely to focus on his family and religious life, despite being Makhachev’s lifelong friend and head coach.

“Of course, I miss him,” Islam said. “But I understand. He gave everything for me, for the team. Now it’s my job to continue the legacy — not just win, but win with respect, honor.”

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Who’s Next for the Lightweight King?

With back-to-back title defenses, including his dominant win over Charles Oliveira and a razor-close battle with Alexander Volkanovski, Makhachev has cemented himself as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.

Cormier didn’t hold back:

“Let’s be real, brother. You’ve cleaned out the division. Is it time to go up to 170?”

Makhachev responded with a smirk:

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“Maybe. If UFC gives me something big, I’ll take it. I don’t want to fight just to fight. I want legacy fights. Maybe Leon [Edwards], maybe Gaethje, maybe someone new.”

Training, Faith, and Staying Grounded

Throughout the interview, Islam emphasized what has kept him focused: discipline, faith, and loyalty. He spoke about waking up early to pray, training hard even when he’s not in camp, and never forgetting where he came from.

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“In Dagestan, you learn to be strong, to be humble, and to work hard. I didn’t grow up with much. That’s why I appreciate everything now.”

Cormier, visibly moved, responded:

“That’s why people respect you, Islam. You’re real. No trash talk, no drama — just greatness.”

Final Thoughts: A Quiet Champion With a Loud Legacy

As the conversation wrapped up, Cormier reminded fans why Islam Makhachev is such a special figure in MMA.

“He’s not flashy. He’s not loud. But he’s one of the best to ever do it — and he’s just getting started.”

With his eyes on legacy, super fights, and perhaps a move to welterweight, Makhachev’s journey is far from over.