Fight Inc: Inside the UFC documentary showcased UFC trying to book Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Kamaru Usman. In a newly released behind-the-scenes footage, Khabib Nurmagomedov temporarily ditched his coaching role. Instead, the UFC legend played part-time manager for the fighters in front of Dana White.
In classic Nurmagomedov fashion, his managerial debut was both blunt and hilarious. The recently released video is from a three-part docuseries titled Fight Inc: Inside the UFC. Khabib hilariously took over Ali Abdelaziz’s role as Kamaru Usman’s manager. He sided with White and gave a nod to the exciting matchup.
You know, one of the things what makes you the greatest fighter, you defend your title many times, and you give the opportunity to shine to young guys. This is what make you great… Brother [Ali Abdelaziz], if you nervous don’t talk.
Khabib Nurmagomedov via Fight Inc: Inside the UFC
Khabib Nurmagomedov discussed the merits of Usman fighting with Stephen Thompson compared to Shavkat Rakhmonov. He and Dana White agreed that if Rakhmonov managed to defeat Usman, he would become the next contender in the welterweight division. Soon, Nurmagomedov faced the camera and announced the Kamaru Usman vs. Shavkat Rakhmonov fight.
The fight ultimately did not come to fruition. Now, the two fighters are neck and neck in the rankings. Usman remains at the #1 spot while Rakhmonov has since climbed to #3 spot. A fight between these two welterweight elites would be a spectacle to see. They would have to thank Khabib Nurmagomedov and Dana White for this idea if it materializes.
Dana White’s appreciation for the Dagestani fighters
The Dagestani fighters have taken over the highest echelons of MMA in recent years. Dana White understands the mentality and willpower these mountain-dwelling men possess. He always admired their ruggedness and hard lifestyle that enabled them to dominate the elite competition in the UFC.
Dana White and Dagestani fighters (via MMA Fighting)Fighters like Khabib Nurmagomedov, Islam Makhachev, and more are examples of grit, determination, and skill. White shared some insights in the tribute to Nurmagomedov’s father, the late Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. He revealed his appreciation for the lifestyle of the Dagestani fighters.
He [Khabib] is a hard guy. His dad was a hard guy. He raised him to be a man’s man.
Dana White via TNT Sports
White had put up Islam Makhachev’s quote on the UFC Performance Institute wall as well as in the Apex. This quote was uttered when White negotiated with Makhachev about a short-notice replacement ahead of UFC 294. The quote basically summarized that a champion should never back down from a fight, no matter who the opponent is. This and other anecdotes from the Dagestani fighters showcase Dana White’s appreciation and adoration for their never-back-down attitude.
