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Usman Nurmagomedov, Khabib Nurmagomedov's younger cousin, successfully defended his Bellator lightweight championship title against legendary mixed martial artist Benson Henderson at Bellator 292.
During the Bellator Lightweight World Grand Prix quarter-finals, Nurmagomedov showcased his skills and continued the family legacy by delivering an impressive performance. He quickly ended the fight by utilizing a question mark kick that sent his opponent, a former UFC champion, to the canvas within the opening minutes. Usman then expertly transitioned to a rear-naked choke, forcing his opponent to submit.
Following the retirement of Khabib Nurmagomedov from MMA coaching, his younger cousin Usman Nurmagomedov proved himself to be a capable fighter with the guidance of other Dagestani training partners, including UFC lightweight champion Islam Makahchev and AKA head coach Javier Mendez.
In their absence, Usman stepped up and showed his potential, ultimately earning an impressive victory. With the support and expertise of his fellow Dagestani fighters, Usman was able to overcome his opponent and continue the Nurmagomedov legacy in the Bellator ring.
Usman Nurmagomedov and Islam Makahchev have been training and honing their skills under the tutelage of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Khabib Nurmagomedov's father, since their early years, even before they signed with major fighting promotions. The trio of fighters from Dagestan have been close-knit for a long time and share a deep bond through their passion for MMA.
Usman Nurmagomedov seems unconcerned about who comes next in the Bellator Grand Prix
Usman Nurmagomedov further solidified his impressive resume with a monumental victory on Friday. Despite being considered a heavy favorite by oddsmakers, the lightweight champion proved his dominance by defeating former UFC and WEC champion Benson Henderson in the main event of Bellator 292.
The 24-year-old is a highly promising fighter in the MMA world, renowned for his undefeated record and impressive skills inside the octagon. His exceptional fighting pedigree comes as no surprise, given that he is the younger brother of Umar Nurmagomedov, who currently competes in the UFC bantamweight division.
At the post-fight press conference, Nurmagomedov appeared unfazed and unbothered about his potential opponents at the Bellator Grand Prix. The star athlete indicated that he is prepared to face whoever comes his way.
"I honestly don’t care. It can be Barnaoui or Brent. I really don’t care. See you in the second round with any(one).”
Watch the entire interview below:
