While discussing notable rivalries in MMA history, Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov’s rivalry would make every fan’s list. Regardless of any parameter, the rivalry would occupy a higher rank. However, appearing on the UFC star, Sean O’Malley’s podcast, a guest made the host ponder about the influence both the fighters had in their teammates’ lives. Thus, adding another layer of analysis to their heated relationship.
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On ep. #214 of TimboSugarShow, ‘Sugar’ sat with co-host Tim Welch. The duo touched upon the re-adjusted UFC 282 card, upcoming guests on the podcast, and other unconventional issues. Similarly, the pair also talked about the recent development regarding the Irishman that took the MMA world by storm.
Subsequently, the conversation prompted the guest, Schmitty, to draw a parallel between the two arch-enemies.
The difference between Conor McGregor and Khabib’s team
Recalling the Russian fighter’s takeover comments, the guest pointed out that Khabib actually carried and brought up people who were behind him. Likewise, he declared that the Dublin-born athlete was all about himself.
Imago
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JULY 10: Conor McGregor of Ireland prepares to fight Dustin Poirier during the UFC 264 event at T-Mobile Arena on July 10, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)
Significantly, the proteges of the former lightweight champion have claimed gold in different promotions. Hailed as the legacy holder of Khabib himself in UFC, Islam Makhachev recently claimed the UFC gold at UFC 280.
Riding on the momentum of a 10-win streak, the protégé defeated Charles Oliveira via submission on a dominant outing. Thus, taking the lightweight belt to Dagestan where it belonged once.
Another proud moment for the American Kickboxing Academy product arrived as Usman Nurmagomedov earned gold in the Bellator promotion in Nov 2022 at Bellator 288.
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Strikingly, the picture emerges of a sporting dynasty gripping the MMA world with its influence. However, the landscape changes drastically when fans dig into the details of SBG Ireland teammates.
What came as a shock to MMA fans and, above all, to ‘Notorious‘ himself, Artem Lobov sued his long-term training partner for millions of dollars over the $600 million Proper No. 12 Whiskey deal.
Suga on Khabib’s influence
Following this conversation, the bantamweight fighter, who is first in line for a title shot, seemed impressed with Khabib’s teammates’ success, which surpassed the UFC boundaries.
Imago
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – MARCH 27: Abubakar Nurmagomedov of Russia has his hands wrapped prior to his fight as his cousin and former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov looks on during the UFC 260 event at UFC APEX on March 27, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)
Further, appreciating their recent success, O’Malley pointed out, “Muslim. It’s a religion. It’s like they live that sh*t.”
The 34-year-old fighter who retired in Oct 2020 took to coaching and joined the AKA head coach, Javier Mendez. Therefore, he chiefly appears in the corner of fighters like Zubaira Tukhugov, Tagir Ulanbekov, and his cousins- Umar and Usman Nurmagomedov.
What do you think of these claims by Suga O’Malley? Do you also agree with him? Let us know in the comments below.