Umar Nurmagomedov Reveals Values Instilled by Khabib’s Late Father Ahead of UFC Shanghai

Dagestani bantamweight contender Umar Nurmagomedov reveals how a win at UFC Shanghai would further carry on the Dagestani legacy.

Umar Nurmagomedov Reveals Values Instilled by Khabib’s Late Father Ahead of UFC Shanghai

Umar Nurmagomedov looks to further cement Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov's legacy (via ESPN, UFC)

Umar Nurmagomedov enters UFC Shanghai to face Chinese contender Song Yadong in the main event. The Dagestani star trains under Javier Mendez and his cousin, UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov. Umar also carries forward the legacy established by legendary coach Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov.

Abdulmanap was a legendary Dagestani coach who developed elite fighters through wrestling, sambo, and discipline. He trained his son Khabib from childhood, helping shape his path to UFC greatness and undisputed gold. His methods also influenced current MMA champions Islam Makhachev and Usman Nurmagomedov.

Umar represents the new generation of Dagestani stars emerging in the UFC as he prepares to face Yadong in Shanghai. He enters after defeating former champion Deiveson Figueiredo at UFC 324.

A victory could build momentum toward another title shot. The bantamweight has acknowledged the added responsibility surrounding the matchup.

I feel more responsibility in how I represent my family. The best legacy from Abdulmanap is what kind of students he educated. We try, we try to do everyday, be best version of ourself. Not just in team, outside in everywhere.

Umar Nurmagomedov via UFC Shanghai pre fight presser

The same disciplined mindset has carried into Khabib’s coaching as he guides his cousin’s career. Following Umar’s UFC 324 win, ‘The Eagle’ made it clear there would be no easy route back to a title opportunity. He indicated their team remains prepared to accept any matchup, regardless of rankings, as Umar continues his climb.

Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov’s greatness came from his discipline and determination to develop world-class fighters. He instilled those values from childhood through demanding training and strict discipline. His approach to difficult students also reflected the high standards he maintained throughout his coaching career.

According to Khabib, his father always taught through example and remained direct with his fighters. Abdulmanap gave blunt assessments of their performances while maintaining strict standards throughout. His influence extended beyond his team, inspiring children across Dagestan and becoming an example for people worldwide.

Umar has admitted he does not match Khabib’s training mentality, especially when it comes to discipline outside the gym. He revealed Khabib would train late at night even after exhausting travel. Umar also acknowledged Khabib’s greater psychological strength inside the cage, showing the standard he continues trying to reach.

Song Yadong presents a dangerous challenge with his speed, striking, power, and countering ability. Umar Nurmagomedov must find openings while avoiding the Chinaman’s dangerous offense. A victory would strengthen The Young Eagle’s title ambitions and further cement the Nurmagomedov name in MMA history.

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Umar Nurmagomedov reveals hilarious nickname change for former rival amid recent back and forth

Merab Dvalishvili and Umar Nurmagomedov collided at UFC 311 with the UFC bantamweight title at stake. Dvalishvili retained his championship after winning by unanimous decision over the previously undefeated Nurmagomedov. The five-round contest ended with scorecards of 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46.

While their exchanges were initially respectful, Nurmagomedov and Dvalishvili grew tense before UFC 311. The Georgian star believed Umar’s cousins pushed him toward trash talk and unnecessary hostility. Their bad blood has continued since their fight, with tensions resurfacing between the two bantamweights.

Umar Nurmagomedov
Umar Nurmagomedov (via UFC)

Tensions resurfaced when Dvalishvili slapped Akhmed Gadzhimagomedov backstage at RAF Georgia after the wrestling veteran questioned demeaning comments about Umar.

The incident followed Dvalishvili’s remarks during the RAF Georgia press conference. ‘The Young Eagle’ has now criticized his former rival’s recent behavior.

If I do disrespect, nobody is going to hold you. You can find my number. We can find space. Text me. His next fight is in Abu Dhabi. We can go there. Just text me. It’s a man’s style. It’s not man style. When you’re crying, “Disrespect, disrespect. He has to change his nickname. No more ‘Machine’. ‘Disrespect’ Merab, no ‘Machine’, because he’s crying about that all the time.

Umar Nurmagomedov via MMA Fighting

Umar Nurmagomedov has addressed the RAF Georgia altercation, questioning Merab Dvalishvili’s conscience and criticizing his behavior.

His latest comments add another chapter to their rivalry outside the Octagon. The Dagestani bantamweight’s nickname jab further highlights the hostility between the former rivals.

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