A key factor in the matchup will be the ability of the two lightweights when on their backs. They both possess a high level of grappling and wrestling capable of winning a fight. Charles Oliveira’s Iranian wrestling coach Alireza Noei recently spoke to Brazilian outlet PVT and seemed optimistic about his charge’s chances.
Noei has been training ‘do Bronx’ for four years and has overseen the former champion’s progress with respect to his wrestling. He said:
He also described their training that was specific to Makhachev and which sides of him they intend to target and avoid:
Watch the translated segment on MMA with Subtitles:
Charles Oliveira’s coach believes Islam Makhachev is a “better wrestler” than Khabib Nurmagomedov
Despite Alireza Noei’s confidence in his student Charles Oliveira and their extensive preparations, the coach admitted to Islam Makhachev’s wrestling being superior to Khabib Nurmagomedov.
The former undefeated UFC lightweight champion has acted as a mentor and coach for Islam Makhachev since his retirement and has long touted his friend as his successor.
Noei said in the same interview with PVT:
Nurmagomedov is a two-time combat sambo gold medalist at the WCSF World Championships. Meanwhile, Makhachev has won the sambo gold medal once at the 2016 World Championships.
Noei’s statement is certainly high praise for Makahachev considering the utter dominance ‘The Eagle’ exhibited through his wrestling in the octagon. If Makhachev can better that, Charles Oliveira may be in for a tough night at UFC 280.
Watch Alireza Noei’s full interview with PVT:
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