Khabib Nurmagomedov, the celebrated former UFC lightweight champion and Hall of Fame member, recently shared insights into his son’s interest in MMA – and his own reservations about a future professional career for him in the octagon.
Known for his 29-0 unbeaten streak in the MMA world, Nurmagomedov has transitioned from competitor to coach, applying his knowledge and experience at the American Kickboxing Academy in San Jose.
However, Nurmagomedov has voiced concerns over his son following in his footsteps into professional MMA, suggesting that the life of professional athletes is far removed from that of “normal people”.
He recounted a conversation with his son, who, inspired by Islam Makhachev’s success, expressed curiosity about his father’s fighting skills:
He just asks me too many questions because when I retired he was only 3 years old.
A couple of weeks ago he asked me: “Father, can you fight like Islam Makhachev? Because he’s a very good fighter, I never seen you fight like him.”
I’m, like – okay, this is a very good question.
While Nurmagomedov is supportive of his son’s training in mixed martial arts, he remains cautious about encouraging him towards a professional career in the sport:
I know for sure he’s going to train…
Personally, I don’t want him to become a professional athlete, I’m not gonna hold him [back].
But honestly, I don’t want it.
“You just have to keep winning, and at the end of the day, you will fight for the title.”
Khabib Nurmagomedov gives career advice to cousin Umar ahead of his #UFCVegas87 fight today.
(via @MikeBohn) pic.twitter.com/WjiCTB5baW
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) March 2, 2024
