The rivalry between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor persists, with McGregor still fixated on his loss to Khabib, while Khabib’s legacy continues through his coaching and family, despite McGregor’s ongoing provocations.
It’s been over six years since Khabib Nurmagomedov defeated Conor McGregor to defend his UFC lightweight title. Yet, the rivalry between these fighters endures—at least for one of them.
After a heartbreaking loss to Usman Nurmagomedov at a recent PFL event in Dubai, Paul Hughes showed respect to his opponent and his team, including Khabib as head coach. Hughes distanced himself from past vile remarks made against them, clearly referencing McGregor’s frequent insults towards Khabib and his clan. Surprisingly, McGregor even criticized Hughes for trying to make peace post-fight.
Usman believes McGregor is still hung up on his loss to Khabib. This has spiraled into an unhinged obsession with the entire Nurmagomedov family.
“Maybe because Khabib kicked his ass,” Usman told MMA Fighting when discussing McGregor. “He wants a rematch but must live with this forever, as will his kids.”
“When his kids grow up, people will say, ‘Hey, your father tried some crazy stuff but a guy from Dagestan came and kicked his ass.’ That’s why he can’t sleep.” Usman chuckled.
Usman thinks McGregor has tied his legacy to that fight against Khabib. It didn’t end well for him, and he’s never moved past it.
Since losing to Khabib in 2018, McGregor’s fought only three times with a 1-2 record. He hasn’t competed since breaking his leg against Dustin Poirier in 2021.
Meanwhile, Khabib defended his title twice more after beating McGregor. Then he retired, fulfilling a promise to his mother following his father’s tragic death during the pandemic.
“He has to live with this,” Usman remarked. “His family and legacy revolve around it. He lost when he had to win. But it didn’t happen.”
“After Khabib beat him, he didn’t come back to fighting,” Usman added. “He’s going to drink. Beat some women. He’s stupid.” Ouch.
Despite McGregor’s obsession with Khabib, Usman knows their family’s legacy is bigger than any single fight.
Even now, Usman feels like Khabib adds to his resume as one of the sport’s top coaches—a role their father would have cherished.
“Khabib’s legacy continues,” Usman said. “We call this Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov’s legacy because he started it all.”
“Khabib did a lot,” Usman continued. “Now it’s me and Umar continuing this legacy. Alhamdulillah, we’ll be on top for many years.”
Regarding Hughes post-fight, Usman holds no animosity; truthfully, he never had an issue with the Irish fighter.
Usman knows hyping a fight involves creating interest, and selling it as “Dagestan vs. Ireland” was perfect.
“Before the fight, I said Paul Hughes isn’t a bad guy,” Usman stated. “I met him in Dubai; he’s good. But we had to promote this fight.”
“That’s why we called it Ireland versus Dagestan,” Usman explained with a grin. “Our arena was full; the whole world watched. Amazing!”