Khabib praises Usman Nurmagomedov as one of the “best in the world” after Bellator win Up trends

Following Usman Nurmagomedov’s dominant win at Bellator Series 4, Khabib Nurmagomedov wasted no time in praising his younger cousin, hailing him as one of the best lightweight fighters in the world.

“I think Usman is now one of the best lightweight players in the world. I was before, and now it’s our brother Islam (Makhachev), and Usman is next. This is the dynasty,” Khabib said.

Usman Nurmagomedov successfully defended his lightweight title with a unanimous decision over Alexander Shibley in the main event of Bellator Championship Series 4, held at Pechanga Arena in San Diego.

The fight, which largely lacked action and high drama, saw Nurmagomedov (18-0, 1 NC) outmaneuver his fellow Russian with precise strikes, claiming victory by scores of 50-45, 49-46, and 49-46.

“He was incredibly tough,” Nurmagomedov, 26, said after the fight. “I am happy with the win and I hope to defend my next title in Dubai.”

Former Bellator featherweight champion AJ McKee, who has been watching from the cage, is a potential next opponent for Nurmagomedov, provided he beats Paul Hughes in October.

Nurmagomedov, the younger brother of UFC bantamweight Omar and the cousin of former UFC lightweight champion Khabib, is also a teammate of UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.

This marks his second successful title defense since capturing the lightweight belt in November 2022. His October 2023 win over Brent Primus was ruled a no contest after a positive drug test for a banned substance in a prescription medication.

Chapley (24-4), who entered the fight with a nine-fight unbeaten streak, including a win over former Bellator lightweight champion Patrick Pitbull, proved to be a tough challenge but was reluctant to participate.

This hesitation ultimately cost him his first chance at the world title.

Known for his incredible versatility in Eagle MMA, Nurmagomedov frequently switched up his stances and attacked with a variety of offensive maneuvers.

However, Shibli remained defensively sound, making effective saves when Nurmagomedov closed the distance, although his attempts lacked hesitation to influence the referees.

Nurmagomedov continued to press forward in the second round, but Shibley’s defense held firm and kept him out of danger.

The third round saw Nurmagomedov land more kicks and a clean uppercut, although the crowd became restless due to the lack of action.

The biggest moment of the bout came in the fourth round, when Nurmagomedov landed a left head kick and sealed the win, maintaining control in the final moments of the round.

In the final round, both fighters remained cautious, drawing boos from the crowd as the bout ended with little offensive activity.