Khabib Nurmagomedov expresses pride in Usman Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev's title achievements
Khabib Nurmagomedov recently expressed pride in his top pupils Islam Makhachev and cousin, Usman Nurmagomedov for their respective title achievements. His cousin is the reigning Bellator lightweight champion, while Makhachev is the reigning UFC lightweight champion.
Makhachev has been a fixture in the pound-for-pound discussions since his surge up the rankings, especially considering his impressive wins over Charles Oliveira, Alexander Volkanovski and most recently Dustin Poirier. Nurmagomedov, on the other hand, has been a highly touted undefeated lightweight that has been praised by the likes of Daniel Cormier for being the most talented fighter out of the Dagestani team.
'The Eagle' recently took to Instagram and posted a story to lavish praise on his pupils' success. Nurmagomedov mentioned that he believes both his cousin and Makhachev are the top fighters in the world. He wrote:
"The best in the world. Simply the best. They [Makhachev and Nurmagomedov] are best in the world."
Check out Khabib Nurmagomedov's comments and Instagram story below:
![Nurmagomedov's Instagram story regarding his cousin and Makhachev [Image courtesy: @khabib_nurmagomedov - Instagram]](https://staticg.sportskeeda.com/editor/2024/09/2f3a9-17259049428011-1920.jpg?w=500)
Khabib Nurmagomedov cornered his cousin Usman and Islam Makhachev for latest title defenses
Khabib Nurmagomedov has been quite active with his coaching duties as of late as he cornered both his cousin Usman Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev for their respective title defenses.
'The Eagle' provided great support for Makhachev at UFC 302 this past June as his pupil defended his title against former foe Dustin Poirier. Similar to how Nurmagomedov retained his title against 'The Diamond', Makhachev pulled off an impressive submission win after tripping Poirier to secure the position.
The UFC Hall of Famer returned to his cousin, Usman Nurmagomedov's corner at Bellator Champions Series: San Diego this past Saturday, which was the first time he had cornered him since his pupil became champion. Nurmagomedov earned a unanimous decision win over Alexandr Shabliy, which further legitimized his title reign as the Russian was a very formidable challenger that earned his title shot through the Bellator lightweight Grand Prix.
Check out Khabib Nurmagomedov's reaction following his cousin Usman's title defense at Bellator Champions Series: San Diego below: