Usman Nurmagomedov Hails Khabib as "Gift from God"

Usman Nurmagomedov the reigning Bellator lightweight champion praised his cousin Khabib Nurmagomedov as “a gift from God” ahead of his return to the Bellator corner this Saturday. Khabib, who retired from MMA and took a break from coaching recently returned to corner UFC champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 302 in June. Usman, who has not had Khabib in his corner since July 2022 expressed his deep appreciation for Khabib’s support and expertise in MMA.

Khabib’s presence in camp significantly impacts Usman’s preparation and learning according to Usman. He described Khabib’s influence as unparalleled, noting that his cousin’s deep MMA knowledge and support make a considerable difference in training. Usman Nurmagomedov will defend his lightweight title against Alexandr Shabliy on Saturday in San Diego.

Despite receiving a six-month doping ban last October, Usman retained his title and he is set to return from the suspension with an impressive record of 17 wins and one no-contest. The no-contest resulted from the doping ban. Coached by Khabib’s former trainer Javier Mendez, who also trains Makhachev and bantamweight Umar Nurmagomedov, Usman sees Makhachev as the top lightweight globally with himself ranked second.

As Usman readies for his fight, he downplays any pressure to stay unbeaten expressing full confidence in his skills and asserting that no one can defeat him. He remains resolute in his commitment to retaining his title.