Freestyle wrestling or judo: which one is better? Well, surprisingly enough, Khabib Nurmagomedov thinks it’s – judo.

Even though he grew up wrestling, “The Eagle” thinks that an Olympic gold medal in judo is worth more than the one in wrestling.
Why so? Nurmagomedov explained his opinion in a throwback conversation with Henry Cejudo:

If I have a chance to take a judo Olympic gold medal over freestyle [wrestling]? Please – of course, [I would choose] judo.
Yes, brother.

Hey, I’m from Dagestan, I love freestyle wrestling but judo is [on a] different level.

The former and undefeated UFC Lightweight Champion further explained that there’s a lot more people training judo worldwide.
Which is one of the reasons why it’s ahead of wrestling:

My father loved judo. Frankie [Edgar], I’m from Dagestan [where] everybody loves freestyle wrestling.

We talk about Dagestan; three million people. But what about the seven billion people [around the world]? They love judo.

Judo is like [on a] different [level]. [Around] 176 countries compete in the Olympic games [in judo].
In freestyle wrestling? [Around] 54 or 56 countries [participate].

It’s an interesting discussion, made even more interesting because of Cejudo’s bewilderment.
Make sure to watch it all on the video below:

Master The Art Of “Smeshing” With The Sambo-Hybrid Fighting System Of Khabib Nurmagomedov, The Iconic Undefeated UFC Champion Who Shows How He Dominated The Field In MMA With Revolutionary Ground Skills.

• Learn standing techniques, control and submissions on the ground, and even some of Khabib’s revolutionary cage work on this 3-part series.
• See how Khabib closes distance with strikes to set up takedowns, his tips on shooting, and using single legs, body locks, and more.

Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: The Ultimate Guide for Calmly Beating Bigger, Younger Opponents

💥 What if slowing down was the fastest way to win? 💭 Tired of Getting Smashed by Younger, Stronger Grapplers? It’s not your age. It’s your strategy. If you’re a passionate grappler over 35 who’s sick of getting outpaced, outmuscled, or out-cardio’d by opponents half your age — this 120 page e-book was made for you. 🔓 Unlock the Power of Sloth Jiu-Jitsu:

Build Sustainable Strength—Without Wrecking Your Joints, Energy, or Jiu-Jitsu

Tired of waking up sore and burnt out after lifting? Sloth Strength is a proven blueprint for grapplers over 35 who want to get stronger—without the pain, burnout, or injuries.

Developed from 25 years on the mats, this no-burnout approach is made specifically for BJJ athletes in their 30s, 40s, and beyond.