Khabib Nurmagomedov continues to shape the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) long after his retirement, dedicatively mentoring and training new talents from Dagestan. With his focus shifting to coaching, Khabib, the undefeated 29-0 former lightweight champion and UFC Hall of Famer, is poised to corner multiple fighters at the upcoming UFC 311 event, scheduled for early 2025. Among them, Tagir Ulanbekov, who has been training under Khabib’s direct guidance, stands ready to make his mark.
Ulanbekov, the 15-2-0 flyweight contender, is not just stepping onto the octagon — he’s carrying forward the legacy started by Khabib's late father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. Having trained with Abdulmanap himself, Ulanbekov recognizes the depth and significance of this legacy. "It’s very important for us because he wasn’t just a coach, a regular coach. He spent a lot of time, gave us motivational stuff, teaching us how to be men in life," Ulanbekov told UFC about the influence of Khabib’s father.
Growing up helping his mother at the market, Ulanbekov found his calling to combat sports at age eight when he moved to Makhachkala, Dagestan. After joining Khabib's family-oriented team, he has since cultivated his skills, which now culminate at UFC 311 when he faces Clayton Carpenter for the night’s opening fight.
The atmosphere will be charged not just for Ulanbekov but for Khabib, who embodies the pressure of honoring his father’s legacy with every fighter he corners. Khabib is known for maintaining the core values instilled by his father, which his fighters uphold as they aspire to capture titles and prove themselves. Ulanbekov acknowledged this weight of expectation as he prepares for battle. Recent rumors of discontent within the team were quickly dispelled by Ulanbekov, who emphasized their motivation and unity, stating, "On the contrary, we’re extremely motivated. We train hard, stay focused… as a team, we’re determined to surprise the world," speaking to Ushatayka on YouTube.
Meanwhile, Arman Tsarukyan shares his own connection to Khabib’s influence. The Armenian star credits Khabib for igniting his passion for MMA when, at the age of 17, friends encouraged him to watch Khabib's fights. This rekindled his desire to compete. "I watched his fights and I was so inspired," Tsarukyan recalled. His admiration facilitated Tsarukyan's growth as he navigated the competitive circuit and eventually caught the UFC’s attention.
Tsarukyan’s swift rise culminated when he was offered to fight Islam Makhachev on short notice during his UFC debut. Despite the setback of losing by unanimous decision, this opportunity marked the beginning of his professional ascent. Now he's on the verge of avenging his loss at UFC 311 as he challenges for the lightweight title.
Although Tsarukyan now faces Khabib's protégé, Makhachev, he continues to uphold his reverence for Khabib as he fights his way up the ranks. Khabib himself has remained active, analyzing key matchups for the upcoming fight card and ensuring his fighters are prepared for battle. He described the co-main event between his cousin Umar Nurmagomedov and rival Merab Dvalishvili as possessing "very high-level" skills, indicating the depth of talent coming from Dagestan.
Khabib's engagement and mentoring are evident not only through Ulanbekov and Tsarukyan but extend to the broader community of fighters he oversees. This new generation is eager to measure their worth based on the standards set by Khabib and his father, embracing the strength, discipline, and camaraderie of their Dagestani brotherhood.
While UFC 311 presents both hopes and pressing consequences for Khabib, his fighters, and the legacy they uphold, the event promises to be more than just another night of fights. It embodies the culmination of aspirations, rivalry, and the continued impact of a family deeply rooted in the sport. Khabib's coaching and family values symbolize the ethos under which these fighters train, compete, and strive to succeed.
Only time will tell whether Khabib’s fighters will live up to the lofty expectations and legacy. Yet, it's clear Khabib Nurmagomedov remains at the forefront of this evolution, shaping the future of MMA through his dedication, insight, and unwavering commitment to his family's ideals.