“Reminds me of platoon sergeants” – Khabib Nurmagomedov showing shades of late father Abdulmanap in training camp for Islam Makhachev has fans in awe
Training video surfaced online that showcased Khabib Nurmagomedov's training method and similarities with his father Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov.

Khabib Nurmagomedov during a training session (Source: YouTube, h/t Anatomy of a Fighter)
Khabib Nurmagomedov has followed through on his resolution to leave the world of combative sports behind, made in early 2023. However, he had made an exception for former training partner Islam Makhachev. At the time, Makhachev prepared to defend his title against Charles Oliveira at UFC 294. He has taken over the training camp to prepare Makhachev for the title fight. Makhachev will face Alexander Volkanovski to defend his lightweight championship at UFC 294.
“Yesterday Movlid didn’t show up and I told him – You must be in the gym even if you are not preparing,” said Nurmagomedov in a video of his training camp. “It doesn’t matter. Everyone should be in the gym, including me,” said Khabib. “If Islam rests in the evening, it does not mean the whole team of 22 people should rest.”
The strict regime of Nurmagomedov as head coach went viral on social media. Many fans attempted comparisons with Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. Fans of the MMA world became in awe of this highly disciplined approach displayed by Khabib. His father was known for very similar elements of sternness and showed disdain towards obnoxious or uninterested pupils.
One fan commented, “He reminds me of some of my favorite squad leaders and platoon sergeants from when I was in the army.” The much-anticipated rematch between Makhachev and Volkanovski is slated to serve as the main event for UFC 294. The event occurs on Oct. 21 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Fans react to Khabib Nurmagomedov’s strict training camp for Islam Mkhachev ahead of UFC 294
Islam Makhachev is gearing up for a bout with Alexander Volkanovski to defend his title. Old friend and training partner Khabib Nurmagomedov agreed to set up shop as head coach. Fans of the MMA world are in awe, reacting to the matter.

Fans went on the internet to react to Khabib’s coaching method. They saw glimpses of his father. Check out some of the reactions:
Makhachev is considered one of the dominant forces in the lightweight division. Khabib and Makhachev have worked together successfully before as well. Khabib guided Makhachev to win the title at UFC 280. He will hope to do the same at UFC 294/
In case you missed it:
- “These guys are absolute studs,” Dana White hails Alexander Volkanovski’s fearless spirit for accepting ‘most anticipated’ rematch with Islam Makhachev on short notice
- WATCH: Alexander Volkanovski summons BJJ icon for midnight rally to Australia for intense 10-day short notice showdown against Islam Makhachev
Nidhin Shibu
(2537 Articles Published)