UFC 280 talking points: Islam Makhachev emulates his mentor

Two years ago, Nurmagomedov brought his illustrious undefeated career to a close as he beat Justin Gaethje in Abu Dhabi to retain his lightweight title, before announcing his retirement.

Following the death of his father and mentor Abdulmanap, Nurmagomedov followed through on a promise he made to his mother that he would give up fighting after the Gaethje bout.

As one Dagestan fighter left the UFC, another one started to build their own legacy.

Makhachev, 31, was on a six-fight win streak at the time and displaying many of the attributes inside the octagon which made a champion of Nurmagomedov, his coach and mentor.

Four victories later, a title bout with Oliveira beckoned in the same venue that Nurmagomedov fought for the final time.

With Nurmagomedov encouraging Makhachev on from cageside, he emulated his coach to win the lightweight title, sparking jubilant scenes.

The celebrations showed just how much it meant to Dagestan fighters and coaches.