The highly anticipated UFC 302 main event between Islam Makhachev and Dustin Poirier lived up to the hype. Makhachev emerged victorious via submission after a grueling five-round war. Emotions were running high for Makhachev’s camp. Perhaps a little too high for one particular member, Usman Nurmagomedov.
Makhachev had just slept Dustin Poirier in the fifth round via submission. His team member and friend, Usman Nurmagomedov, couldn’t contain his excitement. Usman jumped the barrier, separating the crowd from the octagon and joining the celebration. However, his jovial octagon invasion didn’t go over well with security.
Usman was promptly ejected from the arena by a group of stern-faced guards. The overzealous team member was escorted out of the arena. One can hardly blame Usman for getting caught up in the moment. For the Nurmagomedov clan, Makhachev’s triumph represented a proud continuation of their legacy in the UFC lightweight division. This hard-fought battle against one of the legends of the sport was monumental.
Still, everyone has to follow the rules, even when euphoria takes over. Usman learned that lesson the hard way at UFC 302. Usman Nurmagomedov is an accomplished fighter himself. He is the cousin to the legend Khabib Nurmagomedov. He holds the title of the current Bellator lightweight champion. However, the rules apply even if you are at the sport’s highest level.
Islam Makhachev gives a glowing review of Usman Nurmagomedov
The Dagestani fighters have taken over the MMA scene in the last few years. This includes not just the UFC but also other organizations. A prime example of this is the Bellator lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov. He received great praise from none other than UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.
Islam Makhachev praises Usman Nurmagomedov (via X)Islam Makhachev was recently interviewed on the Pound 4 Pound podcast. Henry Cejudo asked him about how he views the skillset of Usman Nurmagomedov. Makhachev had nothing but praise for the young Nurmagomedov.
Honestly, he [Usman] is the biggest talent I see. But this guy need somebody who push him everyday. If Khabib push him every day, I know he will be superstar.
Islam Makhachev via Pound 4 Pound Podcast
Islam Makhachev did have one ‘bad’ thing to say about Usman Nurmagomedov. He revealed that Usman needed an external source of motivation to push him to be his best self. The Bellator lightweight king is still young and has a long way to go. As such, it remains to be seen if young Usman reaches superstardom in the future.
