Former UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has said his cousin, Usman, can become “one of the greatest” after the Bellator Champion Series lightweight titlist remained unbeaten with a points win over Alexandr Shabliy in San Diego.
Nurmagomedov won a tactical battle with his fellow Russian, becoming the first fighter to beat him since 2016 with a 50-45, 49-46, 49-46 victory on the cards in his third defence of the belt he won in November 2022.
“It was an amazing night for all of our team,” said the elder Nurmagomedov, who played a key role in Usman’s preparations, speaking to DAZN.
“Usman did an amazing job against a very good and experienced opponent. He showed the world why he is one of the best in the world.”
SCENES! 🥳
Usman Nurmagomedov thrown up in the air by friends and family after his win over Alexandr Shabliy.#BellatorSanDiego PIC.TWITTER.COM/GGYAJBKCGN
— Bellator MMA (@BellatorMMA) SEPTEMBER 8, 2024
Usman Nurmagomedov record
Usman Nurmagomedov now has seven wins and one no-contest for Bellator since April 2021.
His overall record of 18 wins includes eight knockouts and six submissions, with the victory over 31-year-old Shabliy his fourth by decision.
“He keeps growing,” said Khabib, who won all 29 of his bouts and is the longest-reigning UFC lightweight champion, having held the title from April 2018 to March 2021.
“He’s just turned 26 and I really believe he’s going to have a great, great future. He’s already defended his title three times.
“Can you imagine, after five or six years, if this guy stays focused? He can put his name on one of the greatest lists.”
WORK DONE ✅
Usman Nurmagomedov’s immediate reaction to defending his Bellator Lightweight Title 👑 #BellatorSanDiego PIC.TWITTER.COM/I0KGIARUPZ
— Bellator MMA (@BellatorMMA) SEPTEMBER 8, 2024
Nurmagomedov back for Bellator
Nurmagomedov was making his return to the cage after a six-month California State Athletic Commission ban for failing a drug test in October 2023.
Details of the failed test were never released publicly and he was not stripped of the Bellator title.
He has insisted he is innocent, adding that the failed test was the result of “medication” rather than steroids.
