In a highly anticipated sit-down interview, UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev joined Daniel Cormier — former double champ and longtime friend of Team Khabib — for an open and honest conversation that gave fans a rare look into the mind of one of MMA’s most dominant forces.

The interview, part of DC & RC on ESPN MMA, covered everything from Makhachev’s training mentality, his future goals, and his thoughts on legacy — and it reminded everyone why he’s considered the spiritual successor to Khabib Nurmagomedov.

 A Champion’s Mindset

Right off the bat, Makhachev made it clear: despite being champion, he’s not relaxing.

“For me, being champion is not the end. It’s the beginning,” Islam told Cormier. “I have to prove every fight that I am number one.”

He spoke about the pressure of holding the belt in the same division Khabib once ruled and how that motivates him to work harder — not just for himself, but for his team, country, and legacy.

 Training Under Khabib’s Shadow — And Light

Cormier, who trained alongside both Khabib and Islam during his time at American Kickboxing Academy (AKA), praised Makhachev’s work ethic and composure. Islam, in turn, gave credit to his mentor and brother-in-spirit, Khabib:

“Khabib gave me the blueprint. I just follow it. Discipline, family, hard training — that’s it. No distractions.”

Fans of the Dagestani camp will recognize the familiar values of humility, honor, and relentless focus — traits that have defined Makhachev’s undefeated run since 2015.

 Who’s Next?

When asked about future opponents, Islam didn’t call anyone out by name — but he didn’t shy away from the idea of moving up to welterweight in the future.

“If I clean out lightweight, then why not? I want challenges. I want history.”

Cormier pushed him on whether he’d face Justin Gaethje, Arman Tsarukyan, or even Charles Oliveira in a rematch, but Islam kept things respectful and focused.

“I don’t care who it is. I will prepare, and I will win. That’s my job.”

 Legacy in the Making

What makes Islam different, and what Cormier highlighted throughout the conversation, is his calm clarity. Makhachev isn’t chasing fame. He’s chasing greatness.

“People will forget your interviews, your followers. But they remember what you did in the cage. That’s what I care about.”

Cormier ended the interview with high praise:

“He’s not just Khabib’s friend or student anymore — he’s his own legend in the making.”

 Final Thoughts

Islam Makhachev’s interview with Daniel Cormier wasn’t filled with trash talk or hype — and that’s exactly what made it so powerful. It showed a fighter who is calm, focused, and ready to leave a legacy of dominance through discipline, not drama.

What do you think of Islam Makhachev’s mindset and future in the UFC? Is he already among the all-time greats, or does he still have more to prove?

Let us know in the comments!