In the MMA multiverse, very few names resonate as powerfully as that of UFC’s lightweight legend Khabib Nurmagomedov. His rivalry with Irish superstar Conor McGregor remains a hot cake for fight fans’ debates. Likewise, his career has left an indelible mark on the UFC’s lightweight division.
Now, ‘The Eagle’s cousin has added fuel to the fire with his commentary on the current stagnancy in UFC’s lightweight division. He has raised the roof with some intriguing trivia about the Russian UFC legend’s star-studded career. What’s more – he has aimed an indirect jibe at almost every other lightweight competing during Nurmagomedov’s reign. So, what’s he saying?
Umar Nurmagomedov lauds Khabib Nurmagomedov as “the strongest lightweight” during his reign
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Recently, Umar Nurmagomedov took to his Instagram handle to share his views on the UFC GOAT debate. He made a compelling case for ‘The Eagle’s status as the GOAT in the UFC lightweight division. He shared a long narrative of his views on his Instagram story, written in his native language.
Firstly, he kicked off his arguments, highlighting ‘The Eagle’s reign as the dominant force in the division. “Khabib is a man who has made 7 UFC lightweight title defenses. From April 2014, his victory over RDA, and until October 2020, his victory over Justin Gaethje – Khabib was the strongest lightweight on the roster,” ‘The Young Eagle’ wrote.
He recounted how it all began in April 2014 with his victory over Rafael dos Anjos and concluded with his triumph over Justin Gaethje in October 2020. During this period, Khabib achieved an astonishing feat: seven consecutive title defenses.
He didn’t shy away from diving deep into the UFC GOAT debate. He drew a distinction between ceremonial power and actual power in the division. While acknowledging the historical significance of fighters like Rafael dos Anjos, Eddie Alvarez, and Conor McGregor, Umar made it clear that ‘The Eagle’ was the genuine champion during his reign. He boldly declared that these fighters, despite their championships, were seen merely as “historical troublemakers” in the lightweight division.
‘The Young Eagle’ backs ‘The Eagle’ in GOAT debate
What’s more – Khabib Nurmagomedov’s cousin’s argument for ‘The Eagle’s supremacy was compelling. He posited that no matter the hypothetical scenarios or test schemes applied, Khabib’s reign would always emerge as the best and undeniable.
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In his own words, he declared: “No matter what test scheme we applied to it, it would be the best and undeniable. Lightweight Grand Prix? Khabib would win. If all the top 15 fighters meet each other twice according to the Swiss system? Khabib would win. In general, if all fighters on the lightweight roster meet each other twice? Khabib would win. If we match any pairs blindly? Khabib would win. One-day eight-ball tournament? Khabib would win.”
He concluded his impassioned commentary by challenging future lightweight champions to measure themselves against Khabib’s incredible record. He asserted, “If you want to be called the best in the history of this weight, cut yourself this Khabibian path: six years of autocracy, 7 title defenses. It definitely won’t be easy.”
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All-in-all, Khabib Nurmagomedov’s legacy in the UFC’s lightweight division is now hailed as undeniable by his own family. And Umar Nurmagomedov’s words are a potent reminder of Khabib’s unparalleled greatness. These bold statements add another layer to the ongoing GOAT debate in the world of MMA. So, what do you make of ‘The Young Eagle’s bold proclamations? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
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