The historic rivalry between Team Khabib and Conor McGregor has been reignited ahead of an electrifying PFL event in Dubai. Bellator lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov is set to defend his title against top contender Paul Hughes in a highly anticipated showdown. With tensions escalating, the champion has issued stern warnings, adding fuel to the fire of this long-standing feud.
Paul Hughes initially involved McGregor in this fight and made it an Ireland vs. Dagestan competition. However, later Hughes confirmed that he doesn’t necessarily want McGregor in his corner after the latest civil lawsuit. In a recent interview, Usman Nurmagomedov addressed the situation and expressed that he doesn’t care about either of them.
I don’t know which relationship he have Pual Hughes and Conor McGregor, but this is not same with Khabib and me. Doesn’t matter. Even if Conor will come I can smash these guys both, I don’t care.
Usman Nurmagomedov via ClockedNLoad
The Ireland vs. Dagestan narrative took center stage after Khabib Nurmagomedov criticized Ireland’s lack of MMA talent. His comments sparked intense back-and-forth exchanges between Team Khabib and Hughes, further building anticipation for the fight. With tensions rising, fans speculated whether Conor McGregor might make a surprise appearance to reignite the legendary rivalry.
Usman Nurmagomedov said he could take care of Conor McGregor right after beating Paul Hughes 👀 Via @BCampbell pic.twitter.com/IzhzXH8Whd
— Clocked N’ Loaded (@ClockedNload) January 10, 2025
The last time both McGregor and Nurmagomedov met was at the iconic UFC 229 where the ‘Eagle’ destroyed the former double champion. In addition to that, Dagestani jumped over the cage to fight Dillon Danis, McGregor’s jiu-jitsu coach. It would be interesting to see Usman Nurmagomedov doing something similar given how this rivalry is shaping up.
Team Khabib believes Usman Nurmagomedov can become the new UFC lightweight champion
The lightweight legacy has been the most competitive in the history of UFC. After Khabib Nurmagomedov took the position as the reigning champion, it was the start of Dagestani dominance. When he retired, Islam Makhachev was able to continue the legacy and is dominating the promotion as the pound-for-pound king.
Islam Makhachev supports Usman Nurmagomedov’s potential to become UFC champion (via Instagram)Going forward, Makhachev has talked about retiring when he’s still in his prime. However, the plan is to make Usman Nurmagomedov the next champion and extend the dominance. In an interview, Makhachev talked about Nurmagomedov’s potential.
I think he’s a high level fighter. He very smart and he really know his job. He’s very good on the striking, how he move, how he control distance….He will be the top in the UFC….He have to finish his job in Bellator and when he comes to UFC he will show.
Islam Makhachev via UFC press conference
At UFC 311, Khabib Nurmagomedov will coach Islam Makhachev and Umar Nurmagomedov with the aim of claiming two UFC belts. Both the fighters are fan favorites and the hype around the card is massive. If everything goes right, Team Khabib will have three world champions at the end of January.
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