UFC 280: Khabib Nurmagomedov gives prediction for Charles Oliveira vs Islam Makhachev

Khabib Nurmagomedov believes Islam Makhachev will be able to have his way with Charles Oliveira.

The surging Makhachev will lock horns with the former lightweight champion in the main event of UFC 280, which takes place in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on October 22.

Oliveira’s showdown with Makhachev – which has been several months in the making – provides him with the opportunity to reclaim the lightweight throne, which he was kicked off of in May due to missing weight.

The outcome of Oliveira vs Makhachev currently has the mixed martial arts world divided, with many believing the fight will be a complete coin-flip either way.

READ MORE: UFC 280: Date, Fight Card, Location, Tickets and more

Khabib, a longtime training partner of Makhachev at American Kickboxing Academy's MMA gym, was asked for his prediction for the fight by the UFC.

Unsurprisingly, the legendary fighter is siding with his teammate over the former champion, though he did send a warning to the Dagestan native.

“I think Islam is more skilled than Oliveira,” he said to UFC Russia per MMA Junkie. “Secondly, his experience as an amateur fighter.

"Also, he’s at his peak. Islam is at his peak. Islam isn’t 23, 26 or 27. He’s 30.

"A week after the fight, he’ll be 31. It’s the best time for any athlete. It’s a time when your mental and physical state should be in synergy.

READ MORE: UFC 280: Islam Makhachev 'not scared' of Charles Oliveira despite 'phenomenal' statistic

"Sometimes your mental state is high, but your physical state is going down. Or when you’re 27 and at your physical peak, but mentally you’re not there yet, because you’re just 27, not 31. And Islam is at his peak.

"I think Islam is better overall. Of course, there are some potential