After having his own run in the UFC as a dominant undefeated champion years ago, Khabib Nurmagomedov is now helping to mentor others toward their own reigns. Islam Makhachev already has secured the lightweight title, and now cousin Umar Nurmagomedov may be next.
Umar secured a clear decision win over Cory Sandhagen in the main event of Saturday's UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi. The bout seemingly served as a bantamweight title eliminator, and "The Young Eagle" is most likely next in line to challenge the winner of the Sean O'Malley vs. Merab Dvalishvili title fight that takes place at The Sphere on September 14.
Following Umar's win, Khabib Nurmagomedov was asked about his thoughts on who his cousin might have a better matchup with when it comes to claiming the gold. The former lightweight champion says the undefeated up-and-comer will be prepared regardless of who is holding the title.
That's not to say he doesn't have a preference, though...
Khabib Nurmagomedov Says Cousin Umar Nurmagomedov Is Ready To Be UFC Champion
I want Merab to be honest, because he's from Georgia. [Dagestan and Georgia are] neighbors. I want Merab to win because it's going to be a very interesting fight. White papakha vs. black papakha. But if O'Malley wins, it's going to be white papakha vs. pink papakha.
He's going to be good competition for O'Malley. A very good fight, high-level fight for all of the fans all over the world. It's not easy to beat Umar. And it's not easy to beat Merab or Sean O'Malley. This is high level. Anything can happen, but in my opinion, Umar is ready.
Umar Nurmagomedov is now 6-0 in the UFC (and 18-0 overall) since entering the promotion in 2021.
O'Malley, meanwhile, won the bantamweight championship by defeating Aljamain Sterling at UFC 292. He retained the title against Marlon "Chito" Vera at UFC 299 in Miami this past March.
For his part, Dvalishvili has won 10 straight fights, clinching himself a title shot after defeating former champion Henry Cejudo at UFC 298 in February.