As 2025 kicks off, the UFC is set to end its month-long break with the highly anticipated first PPV event of the year, UFC 311. Taking place on January 18 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, this stacked card promises a thrilling night where two dozen fighters will showcase their skills and determination. However, the spotlight is particularly bright on UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov, as this event will be a significant milestone for his team.

For the first time in UFC history, two of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s ‘close’ proteges, Islam Makhachev and Umar Nurmagomedov, will compete on the same fight card for titles. Makhachev will defend his lightweight championship for the fourth time against Arman Tsarukyan, while ‘Young Eagle’ will look to unseat bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili in his first title challenge. Adding to the excitement, rising flyweight contender Tagir Ulanbekov, also from ‘Team Khabib,’ will compete on the early preliminary card.

The stakes are undeniably high, sparking speculation about potential ‘Tension’ within ‘Team Khabib.’ However, flyweight Tagir Ulanbekov has dispelled any such rumors. Speaking in a recent interview with ‘Ushatayka’ on YouTube, Ulanbekov stated, “There’s no tension hanging over us. On the contrary, we’re extremely motivated. We train hard, stay focused, and approach each session with respect. As a team, we’re determined to surprise the world.”

Nurmagomedov’s ability to juggle multiple roles as a mentor and corner coach has become a defining aspect of his post-retirement career. Supporting his teammates on the same night is nothing new for the former lightweight champion. At UFC 311, ‘The Eagle’ will once again corner three fighters, a challenge he has successfully undertaken before.

The first instance was at UFC 267, where ‘The Eagle’ cornered Tagir Ulanbekov, Zubaira Tukhugov, and Islam Makhachev in a single night. A year later, at UFC 280, he repeated the feat, cornering Abubakar Nurmagomedov, Belal Muhammad, and Makhachev. These instances underline Nurmagomedov’s unwavering dedication to his team, even in high-pressure scenarios. Despite the UFC Hall of Famer’s proven track record, Makhachev acknowledges the challenges his mentor faces.

The lightweight champion recently opened up about ‘The Eagle’s’ relentless commitment, expressing both admiration and concern. Let’s see what Khabib 2.0 had to say!

Islam Makhachev shows concern for Khabib Nurmagomedov

Since the passing of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s father, Abdulmanap, due to complications from COVID-19, ‘The Eagle’ has embraced the role of coach and mentor without hesitation. The Dagestani ace has stepped into his father’s shoes, ensuring that the legacy of his training plan continued. This “father’s plan” coaching system has already led to significant success, with Makhachev ruling the lightweight division, Usman making strides in his career, and ‘The Young Eagle’ now one fight away from a bantamweight title.

However, this heavy responsibility hasn’t been without its challenges. Although Khabib maintains his focus and calm under pressure, his close friend and protege, Islam Makhachev, acknowledged the burden his coach carries. At the recent UFC 311 press conference, Makhachev expressed concern for Khabib’s upcoming responsibilities, stating, “We try to make it easy, but it’s going to be a long night for him, from the first fight. Tagir is up first, followed by myself, and then Umar. I feel for Khabib—it’s going to be a long night for him.”

What are your thoughts on Khabib Nurmagomedov’s transition to coaching? Do you think he will achieve the same level of success as a coach that he did as a fighter? Share your opinion below.