Usman Nurmagomedov: Bellator star hoping to follow in cousin Khabib’s footsteps

Usman Nurmagomedov says he wants to “follow in the footsteps” of his cousin Khabib before his Bellator debut on Friday.

The Russian, who has won all 11 of his professional MMA fights, faces Mike Hamel in a lightweight bout at Bellator 255, which will be broadcast live on BBC iPlayer.

Khabib is regarded as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time after retiring from the sport last year with a perfect 29-0 record.

“It’s very motivational for me to fight under the Nurmagomedov name,” Usman told BBC Sport.

“I want to follow in Khabib’s footsteps, follow his journey and eventually become a better version of him.”

Usman signed with US-based MMA promoter Bellator in October after an impressive start to his career.

The 22-year-old has finished 10 of his 11 professional fights by submission or knockout, with seven of them coming in the first round.

He regularly trains with former UFC lightweight champion Khabib and says the experience is the perfect preparation for his fights, both physically and mentally.

“I spend my entire training camp with Khabib,” said Usman.

“It’s very hard work to compete and train with him. So after training camp has finished, it feels very easy to train and fight with other people.

“I learn everything from Khabib. Whenever I want to know or learn something, Khabib is there.”

Agencies