Umar Nurmagomedov has recently surged into the UFC bantamweight title conversation, largely thanks to his coach, Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Before his recent bout against Cory Sandhagen at UFC Abu Dhabi, Umar was ranked #10. His climb to a title shot drew skepticism from fans and analysts alike, who questioned whether his credentials justified a fight with the #2 ranked Sandhagen. However, Umar has responded firmly to these critiques.
Merab Dvalishvili, a top contender, will face Sean O’Malley for the title at the Las Vegas Sphere. In the lead-up to this match, Dvalishvili voiced his frustration with Umar Nurmagomedov’s swift rise in the rankings. He suggested that Umar’s relationship with the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov might have unfairly boosted his position. In response, Umar had a clear message for his detractors.
“Yan fought for title after 6 wins. O’Malley after 4 wins. Merab could have fought for the title with Aljo last year. You have to stop crying. You’re just scared that I will take everything from you,” Umar Nurmagomedov shared on X.
Umar Nurmagomedov Fires Back at Critics Claiming Khabib’s Influence Behind His Title Shot
Khabib’s influence was evident in Umar’s dominant performance against Cory Sandhagen. Umar showcased exceptional skills, outmanoeuvring ‘Sandman’ and reinforcing his status in the title picture. Champion Sean O’Malley acknowledged Umar’s impressive display and has agreed to face him, with speculations suggesting that part of O’Malley’s motivation might be to provoke a reaction from Conor McGregor.
Umar has also pointed out the example of Sean O’Malley, who was ranked #11 before securing a fight with Petr Yan and becoming a top contender. Despite the ongoing debate about whether Umar deserves a title shot so soon, there are voices supporting his rapid ascent.
Currently undefeated, Umar Nurmagomedov boasts five UFC victories. His skill set includes sharp striking and powerful wrestling. Before his match with Sandhagen, it was rumored that other top fighters had avoided challenging the Dagestani. Despite the doubts cast upon him, Umar has consistently proven his worth.
Daniel Cormier With Big Praise for Umar
Daniel Cormier, a legendary figure in the sport, has observed Team Khabib closely. He has praised Umar Nurmagomedov as a superior version of both Khabib and Islam Makhachev. Recently, Cormier even labeled Umar as the best bantamweight in the division.
“It’s hard not to think that when you watch Umar Nurmagomedov, you aren’t watching the best bantamweight in the world. I know how fearful many were before taking that fight with Umar,” Daniel Cormier remarked on the Good Guy/Bad Guy Show.
As fans turn their attention to the upcoming title fight between Sean O’Malley and Merab Dvalishvili at Noche UFC, Umar Nurmagomedov is poised to challenge the winner. If he emerges victorious, he will join the ranks of Team Khabib as the third member to claim a UFC title.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
