"He's got a lot to grow" - Scott Coker answers if new champion Usman Nurmagomedov is 'Bellator's Khabib'
Usman Nurmagomedov was able to secure the Bellator lightweight world title at Bellator 288 last night and extend his overall MMA record to 16-0. The Dagestani dominance that has been prevalent in the UFC for many years now seems to have migrated to Bellator.
The supremacy displayed by Nurmagomedov has given rise to the idea that Bellator may have their very own 'Khabib'. Usman Nurmagomedov and 'The Eagle' are cousins and the pair have trained together for many years.
Scott Coker, CEO of the promotion, appeared in front of the press after Bellator 288. He commented on the career path of the new 155lbs champion and his potential as an MMA superstar:
"This kid is young, he's got a lot to grow. But I'll tell you right now, he's one of our most dangerous fighters because he is so complete. He's got the complete game. When you're talking about mixed martial arts sometimes people have great wrestling, people have great jiu-jitsu, sometimes they have great striking. He's able to do all three."
Watch the video below from 12:45:
Usman Nurmagomedov defeated Patricky 'Pitbull' Freire in dominant fashion over five rounds to become the first Bellator champion to hail from Dagestan. He will hope to emulate the performances of his cousin, 'The Eagle', and establish a dominant reign at 155lbs.
Usman Nurmagomedov on phone call from Khabib Nurmagomedov and if he will carry on legacy of 'The Eagle'
Usman Nurmagomedov was crowned the new Bellator lightweight champion on Friday night at Bellator 288. The Dagestani defeated Patricky Freire via unanimous decision in an excellent performance.
Nurmagomedov received a phone call from his cousin, Khabib Nurmagomedov, following his victory on Friday.
The new 155lbs champion was asked about the call by the media during his post-fight press conference. Nurmagomedov was also asked to explain whether he will try and continue the legacy of 'The Eagle'. He said the following:
"He [Khabib] congratulated me. When we make it home, we'll work on mistakes. But he called to congratulate me... He set the bar so high and I have to act accordingly. As you see, I try my best."
Watch the interview below from 3:20:
Usman Nurmagomedov has an incredibly complete set of skills in the cage. With so many years until he reaches his physical and mental prime, one wonders if we will see him in the UFC in the future.