Over the years, many standout fighters have emerged in the MMA community. Notably, Dagestani fighters have consistently been a dominant force in various MMA promotions. Currently, Islam Makhachev is the reigning UFC lightweight champion, while Usman Nurmagomedov holds the Bellator lightweight championship. There has always been considerable buzz surrounding both of these fighters.
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is widely considered the pinnacle of the professional MMA world. Many fighters, especially at the peak of their careers, often look to transition to the UFC due to its popularity. Usman Nurmagomedov, a 26-year-old fighter from a prominent Dagestani lineage, appears eager to make this move soon. However, there is an unexpected twist to his story.
Islam Makhachev achieved a dominating victory over Renato Moicano. Makhachev has accomplished this under the guidance of former undisputed lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. Interestingly, Khabib is also the cousin of Usman, the Bellator lightweight champion. As a result, many parallels have been drawn between the trio of Khabib, Makhachev, and Usman.
Will Usman Nurmagomedov be the successor of Islam Makhachev in the UFC lightweight division?
The rise of Dagestani MMA fighters began largely due to Khabib Nurmagomedov’s remarkable performances in the UFC. Known as the “Eagle,” he was one of the most dominant champions in the promotion’s history. Despite maintaining a perfect record in the UFC, Khabib made the unexpected decision to retire from the sport in 2021 at the age of 33.
Islam Makhachev and Usman Nurmagomedov with Khabib Nurmagomedov (Image via Instagram/@usman_nurmagomedov)After his retirement, Islam Makhachev emerged as the new standout representative for Dagestani fighters in the UFC. However, as Makhachev approaches a similar age to Khabib, discussions are increasing about Usman Nurmagomedov potentially becoming his successor in the UFC lightweight division. Usman has stated that he plans to enter the UFC as soon as Makhachev retires.
During Khabib’s reign as the UFC lightweight champion, Makhachev was already competing in the promotion. Even if the current UFC lightweight champion chooses not to retire, there is still a chance that Usman may debut with the organization. Additionally, the Bellator lightweight champion has stated that by the age of 28, he envisions himself competing in the UFC.
Khabib Nurmagomedov – The cornerstone of Dagestani MMA fighters
Many fighters from Dagestan view Khabib Nurmagomedov as an idol in the sport of MMA. In response to this admiration, Khabib has taken on the role of mentor to several notable fighters from his home region. Currently, lightweight champions such as Islam Makhachev and Usman Nurmagomedov, among others, train under the guidance of the former undisputed UFC lightweight champion.
Team Khabib preparing Usman Nurmagomedov for his fight against Paul Hughes (Image via Instagram/@usman_nurmagomedov and @bellatormma)As a result, Khabib has frequently expressed confidence in Dagestani fighters, which has recently drawn criticism from various MMA figures, including the opponent of Usman’s upcoming fight. The 26-year-old Bellator lightweight champion is currently set to face Irish fighter Paul Hughes in one of the most highly anticipated matchups of his career.
Khabib, as a mentor, coach, and brother, is preparing to corner Usman in his matchup against the Irish MMA star. If the Bellator lightweight champion successfully defends his title, he will solidify his position in the MMA world and enhance Dagestan’s reputation. Additionally, this victory would bring Usman closer to making his entrance into the UFC lightweight division.
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