Usman Nurmagomedov, ahead of his Bellator San Diego fight, acknowledges Islam Makhachev as the top lightweight and pound-for-pound fighter, while valuing Khabib Nurmagomedov‘s coaching influence.
Bellator champion Usman Nurmagomedov is carving out his place as one of MMA’s top lightweights. Yet, even he acknowledges teammate Islam Makhachev as the division’s true king.
Ahead of his return at Bellator San Diego on Saturday, Nurmagomedov ranked himself No. 2 among the best 155-pound fighters. The undefeated 26-year-old knows there’s still work to do in solidifying his title reign, which continues with his upcoming defense against Alexandr Shabliy.
Makhachev—No. 1 on MMA Fighting’s Pound-for-Pound list—has been dominating his UFC competition. With 14 straight wins and three consecutive title defenses, Nurmagomedov has no problem deferring to his friend and training partner.
“Because Islam is No. 1,” Nurmagomedov told MMA Fighting when asked why he places Makhachev above himself. “Just look at him. This is pound-for-pound No. 1 king. It’s true.”
That final statement about Makhachev’s standing shouldn’t surprise anyone given his recent performances. However, UFC CEO Dana White might disagree.
White has been touting Jon Jones as MMA’s best pound-for-pound fighter for months. He even released a promo video on Tuesday to praise Jones’ long list of accomplishments as the reigning UFC heavyweight champion.
Nurmagomedov isn’t disputing Jones’ greatness but believes Makhachev deserves current recognition in the pound-for-pound rankings. “For this time, now, Islam is No. 1 for sure,” he said.
“But of course Jon Jones, this is a legend. Nobody is saying he’s not a legend. I grew up watching his fights. I love his style and mentality. This guy is tough.”
“We’re talking about now, and for me, people have different opinions. Dana White has his opinion; you have your opinion. This is good—not something bad.”
Makhachev has been instrumental in Nurmagomedov’s evolution as a fighter, providing immense help as he prepares for Shabliy this weekend.
While acknowledging Shabliy’s danger, Nurmagomedov can’t imagine facing anything tougher than sparring with Makhachev in the gym.
“Islam is a different level,” Nurmagomedov said. “He’s very tough. Training with him shows what you can and cannot do.”
“When you realize this guy is No. 1 in the world, nobody can beat him—no one.”
“Good rounds with him make us mentally strong. I don’t think Shabliy can push me like Islam does.”
If Makhachev’s presence wasn’t enough, Nurmagomedov also benefits from having cousin Khabib Nurmagomedov back as a full-time coach after a brief hiatus.
Usman confirmed Khabib will corner him against Shabliy on Saturday, adding significant value to the team—not just for Usman but also for Makhachev, Umar Nurmagomedov, and others.
“Khabib is the greatest person in MMA,” Nurmagomedov said. “As an athlete and fighter, he faced the best opponents and defended his title remarkably.”
“Training with Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, his father who was an amazing trainer, adds to his experience.”
“Combining all of that as a coach and fighter makes him invaluable. Having him in the corner provides immense support.”
All these factors lead Nurmagomedov to expect another dominant performance against Shabliy.
“I’m ready,” Nurmagomedov said simply. “Sometimes a lucky punch happens, but if not—this guy can’t beat me. Not him; nobody can beat me.”