Yes, another Team Khabib member might soon make his UFC debut. We are talking about Usman Nurmagomedov, who is Umar Nurmagomedov’s brother and Khabib’s cousin. But if there is even an ounce of truth about him coming to the UFC, Islam Makhachev will need to be quick in deciding the trajectory of his own career.

Umar Nurmagomedov revealed in a chat with ‘hosheh_mma’, “After Islam we have planned for Usman [Nurmagomedov to come to the UFC from PFL-Bellator]. I don’t know what’s gonna be future but it’s the goal.”

Well, Usman Nurmagomedov is a lightweight fighter, and currently, Makhachev is the lightweight champion in the UFC. We also know that members of Team Khabib do not fight each other. So it looks like Usman will be the next successor in the lightweight division, quite like how Khabib Nurmagomedov passed the torch to Makhachev before retiring.

Usman is 26-years-old with a 17-0 record. For those unfamiliar with him, he has defeated fighters like Benson Henderson, Patricky Freire, Christopher Gonzalez, and many more in his professional career. He is the reigning Bellator lightweight champion. Considering the fact that he is young and undefeated, he seems like the perfect name to take over the reins. But does that mean Islam Makhachev will retire soon?

In an interview last year, the 32-year-old Makhachev had claimed that he would only fight for “a couple more years.” Let us not forget that Khabib was 32 when he decided to quit MMA. So while Makhachev might stay for a bit longer, he seems to be making way for the Dagestani legacy in the UFC’s lightweight division.

However, Islam Makhachev has another option in mind- the welterweight division. He has been toying with the idea of moving to the welterweight division and dominating there. Unfortunately, Dana White has repeatedly rejected this suggestion. But if Usman does make his lightweight debut, White might have to consider Makhachev’s shift to the heavier division.

It seems Makhachev wants to accomplish something that Khabib missed. Remember how the former UFC champion stuck to the lightweight division until his retirement? This is one criticism that is often heard when Khabib’s name is brought up in the GOAT debate. So, Makahchev proving his dominance in welterweight would only help him further establish his name.

Remember Conor McGregor’s iconic “We’re not her just to take part. We’re here to take over” line? It looks like the Dagestani’s adopted it and put it into effect.

Interesting Fact: Did you know that Usman Nurmagomedov was once kicked out of a UFC event? Yes, it is true!

When Usman Nurmagomedov was kicked out of UFC 302!

Islam Makhachev made his third title defense against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 in June. After the champ submitted ‘Diamond’ with a fantastic D’Arce choke in the final round to tie with Khabib for the most 155-pound title defenses, his whole team was delighted.

Usman Nurmagomedov, who was in the stands, and was part of Makhachev’s team, tried to jump into the cage to celebrate with the champ and Khabib. However, he was promptly stopped by security and escorted out of the venue.

In videos, he could be seen being taken by three security guards outside the Prudential Center Arena, as he tried to protest and explain he was part of the team. While it may seem a bit excessive at first glance, he was kicked out because he wasn’t part of Makhachev’s corner, and hence, not allowed to enter the octagon.

Well, fans will have to wait and watch if he eventually makes it to the UFC roster. Regardless, Usman Nurmagomedov has a fight to prepare for. On Sept 7, he is set to clash against Alexandr Shabliy at Pechanga Arena, San Diego, California, United States. They will headline the main event and Usman will look to defend his title.