Let’s face it, getting praise from Khabib Nurmagomedov is like spotting a unicorn in the wild. His reputation for being stone-faced and, well, unimpressed is well-earned. If you’re waiting for ‘The Eagle’ to shower you with compliments, you might be waiting a while. So what does it take to earn a “well done” from the undefeated UFC Hall of Famer? According to his cousin, Umar Nurmagomedov, it takes some serious effort. Both in training and when the cage door shuts.

During a candid chat on the Pound 4 Pound podcast with Kamaru Usman and Henry Cejudo, the 135lbs title challenger spilled the beans on what it’s like training under Khabib’s watchful eye. “You know, he don’t show for me, Khabib rarely text me and said good sparring, you know,” Umar revealed while peeling back the curtain on his training relationship with the legendary fighter. “I need to smash my opponents in training for his good compliment.” In short, Khabib isn’t handing out gold stars for participation. It’s a grind, and if you want the legend’s approval, you have to earn it.

And let’s be clear, Khabib’s brand of tough love is exactly what’s helped propel Umar to the top of the bantamweight ranks. His cousin’s guidance goes beyond just technical skills. “I’m always with him, and I was with him when he became champion,” Umar shared, reflecting on their deep family bond. “I am thankful to him because he is not retired like a coach and he’s with me. He stays with me when I will be fighting for the title.” That’s the kind of support that turns a champion into a dynasty. Don’t you think?

As UFC 311 looms, everyone has a question on their mind. Will Khabib’s guidance help the undefeated 135fer to secure a win against Merab Dvalishvili in the co-main event? This isn’t just another fight for Umar. It’s a critical showdown, and with Khabib in his corner, you better believe the mental game will be just as important as the physical one.

Will Khabib Nurmagomedov’s “Master Yoda” moment strike again at UFC 311?

Let’s talk about that recent moment when The Eagle’s advice turned the tide in a fight. During Umar’s last bout with Cory Sandhagen at UFC Abu Dhabi, Khabib’s cornering went viral for a reason. As the fight went into the later rounds, Khabib wasn’t barking out strategies. He fed his cousin some food for thought. To be exact, after the third round, with the fight still very much in play, his words hit Umar like a freight train. “Khabib cornered me and he said, ‘Now is the beginning of rounds and you have to be strongest, don’t show weakness. You have to be strong. Go ahead and take this victory, press him, push him, don’t lose any second.”

Usually, we expect it to be all about fight strategy and techniques, right? But Khabib didn’t bother with any of that. Making a statement loud and clear to the world that has been accusing him of an overshadowing tale. A tale where Khabib has been keeping his protege under wraps within his shadow. This advice during the bout, hence speaks volumes, shutting all such speculations.

The Dagestani leader’s confidence in his team is unquestionable. Micromanaging every move was out of the question. Khabib knew Umar was prepared enough to execute the strategy. What he needed was that extra mental push to go the distance. And guess what? ‘Young Eagle’ soared, taking the win with relentless pressure and composure.

So, who’s your pick for UFC 311? Will Khabib’s unspoken confidence in Umar help him clinch another win? Or will Merab’s high-octane pace prove too much to handle? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!