UFC's Al Iaquinta says he's rooting for Khabib Nurmagomedov to beat the dog snot out of Conor McGregor in the 1st or 2nd round ... because it'll make his fight with Khabib look more impressive!
Remember, Al stepped in and fought Khabib back in April at UFC 223 on a day's notice ... and survived all 5 rounds with the Dagestani superstar.
Despite the loss, Al clearly respects Khabib -- and HATES Conor -- and tells TMZ Sports he's hoping his former opponent smashes Conor like a chump.