The rise of Dagestani fighters in the MMA community is widely recognized. Former UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov was a key figure in this movement. Since then, UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and Bellator lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov have risen to the top as well. Furthermore, they plan to maintain and expand Dagestani’s dominance in MMA.
The most impressive aspect of Dagestani fighters is their strong sense of camaraderie. They often train together, which helps foster their dominance in the sport. Bellator lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov was recently asked about his future. In his response, Usman shared an intriguing plan for taking over the lightweight division after the current UFC champion, Islam Makhachev, retires.
I’m waiting for Islam (Makhachev) to finish his career and then I will (go to the UFC). I think if we get it right, we’ll be fighting in the UFC at 28 (years old), I’m 26 years old right now. Two more years, I’ll get stronger and that’s it. Go into the UFC 28 and compete until I’m 32…
Usman Nurmagomedov via Gorilla Fighting
Islam Makhachev defeated Charles Oliveira to crown himself as the UFC lightweight king back in 2022. Since then, Makhachev defended his title thrice, twice against Alexander Volkanovski and once against Dustin Poirier. All these victories have further elevated Makhachev’s stature in the promotion.
Usman Nurmagomedov reveals his plans to join the UFC in 2 years 👀
“I’m waiting for Islam to finish his career and then I will. I think if we get it right, we’ll be fighting in the UFC at 28.
I’m 26 years old right now. 2 years I’ll get stronger and that’s it. Go into the UFC… pic.twitter.com/xrgQVVdlRD
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) October 23, 2024
Usman Nurmagomedov has often praised his training partner, Islam Makhachev, on multiple occasions. While many UFC fighters continue to compete past the age of 35, Usman believes that Makhachev may consider retirement soon. The Bellator lightweight champion has stated that he plans to compete in the UFC after two years, which suggests that Makhachev might retire within that time frame.
Khabib Nurmagomedov is confident about Usman Nurmagomedov’s potential as a fighter
At 26 years old, Usman Nurmagomedov boasts an impressive undefeated record. His most recent victory was against Alexander Shabliy, where he successfully defended his Bellator lightweight title. Following that win, Usman’s cousin and mentor, Khabib, commented on his future and development in the sport.
Khabib Nurmagomedov, the former UFC champion, often speaks highly of his fellow Dagestani fighters due to their exceptional performances. He believes that if they stay focused throughout their careers, no one can prevent them from becoming legends in the sport.
He (Usman Nurmagomedov) just turned 26, I really believe he’s gonna have a great future. He already made history, winning and defending his title three times. But can you imagine after five or six years, (if) this guy stays focused he an put his name as one of the greatest, atop the list. This is what I believe…
Khabib Nurmagomedov via Bellator MMA
“HE CAN PUT HIS NAME ON THE ALL TIME GREAT LIST” ☝️@TeamKhabib speaks at the end of #BellatorSanDiego after Usman Nurmagomedov defends his lightweight world title.#RoadToDubai pic.twitter.com/ptioFq1p9w
— Bellator MMA (@BellatorMMA) September 8, 2024
Usman Nurmagomedov currently does not have any upcoming fights scheduled. Bellator lightweight contender Paul Hughes called for a title shot against Usman. In addition, Conor McGregor has agreed to support his fellow countryman, Hughes, in this endeavor. This interesting situation could potentially lead to another showdown between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor.
