Picture this- Khabib Nurmagomedov churning out back-to-back prodigies from his camp who are winning in different promotions and continuing his legacy. But think again, because this picture has not become a masterpiece yet. Both of his prized fighters are set to face off in what could make shatter his legacy and ‘Father’s Plan’.

Umar Nurmagomedov has the chance to become the bantamweight champion if he can manage to defeat the reigning champ Merab Dvalishvili. With a previous feud already simmering beneath the surface, the duo’s confrontation at the UFC 311 pre-fight press conference has only made the situation worse. On top of that, a UFC veteran has sided with ‘The Machine’ which spells trouble for Khabib’s cousin.

Merab Dvalishvili gets backing from ex-UFC dual champ

‘The Machine’ is finally going to have his first title defense against Umar Nurmagomedov after allegedly ducking the unavoidable clash. We have already seen the crackling tension between the duo. Remember what happened just a few weeks ago? Allegations and threats brewed between the two bantamweights; adding to the intense hype after the UFC 311 fight announcement. Former two-division UFC champion Daniel Cormier was among the panel with other pundits discussing the co-main event of 2025’s first PPV event.

During the discussion, DC sided with ‘The Machine’ and declared, “Merab Dvalishvili is an absolute monster. His name is ‘The Machine’ and he is a machine. And I tell you this much he is tough for anyone. Because of his pace, his pressure, his cardio, and his ability to spam takedowns, he just likes to spam takedowns. He is the guy that you play in a video game that you, throw and break controllers because he will not stop. He will not stop he just keeps going and, going and going, and going.”

The tensions are at an all-time high between the duo who are going to clash inside the Octagon very soon. Interestingly, ‘The Young Eagle’ has come forward to warn the current 135lbs king before they start talking with their fists and punches.

Umar Nurmagomedov warns Dvalishvili ahead of UFC 311

While discussing the upcoming 135lbs title clash with the media, the host asked the Dagetsani whether Merab Dvalishvili’s physical conditioning was better than his. This question seemed to trigger the undefeated fighter. Khabib’s cousin said that this would be decided inside the Octagon, “We will find it in the cage,” said Nurmagomedov in a cold tone.

He added, “It’s too early to talk about anything or anyone right now. On January 18, we will find out who the better man is. What I will do with him and how the fight will go—I want to visualize all of this. I don’t want to just talk about it.”

Things were already heated between the two because it was speculated that ‘The Machine’ was ducking a fight with the Dagestani. Moreover, Dvalishvili also alleged that Umar did not deserve to fight for the belt just yet and got the favor owing to his relationship with Khabib. This animosity escalated more at the pre-fight press conference when the duo nearly started a riot outside of the Octagon, prompting security to intervene.

With both having a heavy wrestling background, this fight could mean a five-round wrestling bonanza for the fans. Who do you think is going to win this one? Will Dvalishvili defend his title and prove why he deserves to be called ‘The Machine’ or will ‘Young Eagle’ soar high and add another belt to ‘Team Khabib’?