Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Coach: Conor McGregor Is Still Khabib’s Top Contender

Khabib Nurmagomedov’s coach still ranks Conor McGregor as his fighter’s #1 contender. Javier Mendez spoke with SportsDaily.ru and talked about Nurmagomedov’s potential matchups for the UFC lightweight championship and ranked his top four potential opponents.

“Talking about four potential rivals for Khabib, I can give my assessment from the [least] dangerous to the most dangerous,” Mendez said. “Max Holloway [would] be the easiest for Khabib. Max has good boxing, but it lacks the power [necessary in] the lightweight division. Next on the list is Dustin Poirier. He’s got stamina and versatility. Tony Ferguson is my second choice. His elbows are very dangerous. And finally, [the] number one contender for me is still Conor. His boxing is special, that’s his chance.”

McGregor’s next fight is unknown at this time, though Poirier is expected to get the next shot at Nurmagomedov’s title at UFC 242.