Abubakar Nurmagomedov is a name that many MMA fans may recognize, especially if they are fans of the former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. But how are these two fighters related and what is their story? Here is everything you need to know about the Nurmagomedov cousins.
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Abubakar Nurmagomedov: A brief introduction
Abubakar Nurmagomedov is a Russian mixed martial artist who competes in the welterweight division of the UFC. He is 31 years old and has a professional record of 16 wins, three losses and one draw. He is also a former Russian national combat sambo champion and a bronze medalist at the Combat Sambo World Championships.
Abubakar started his MMA career in 2011 and fought in various promotions such as ProFC, WSOF and PFL before signing with the UFC in 2019. However, his UFC debut was delayed by a year due to his involvement in the post-fight brawl between Khabib’s and Conor McGregor’s teams at UFC 229. He was suspended by the Nevada State Athletic Commission for his role in the melee.
Abubakar finally made his UFC debut in November 2019 against David Zawada at UFC Fight Night: Magomedsharipov vs. Kattar. Unfortunately, he lost the fight by submission in the first round. He bounced back with a unanimous decision win over Jared Gooden at UFC 260 in March 2021.
Abubakar Nurmagomedov and Khabib Nurmagomedov: The cousin connection
Abubakar Nurmagomedov and Khabib Nurmagomedov are cousins who grew up together in Dagestan, a region in Russia known for producing some of the best wrestlers and fighters in the world. They lived in the same house and trained in the same gym run by Khabib’s father, the late Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, who was also Abubakar’s uncle and mentor.
The two cousins have a very close bond and consider each other as brothers. They have supported each other throughout their MMA careers and have often cornered each other in their fights. Khabib has praised Abubakar as an important person in his life and a talented fighter who can achieve great things in the sport.
According to Sportskeeda, Khabib said this about Abubakar before his American MMA debut:
> “We’ve lived together all our lives. I was seven years old when he came. Now he’s 25, and I’m 26. We do everything together. We push each other, push ourselves. We help each other. He’s a very important guy in my life.”
Abubakar has also expressed his gratitude and admiration for Khabib, who retired from MMA in 2020 after defending his title against Justin Gaethje at UFC 254. Abubakar said that Khabib is an inspiration for him and many others who want to follow his footsteps.
According to Wikibious, Abubakar said this about Khabib after his retirement:
> “He is my brother, my friend, my teammate, my leader. He showed me and millions of people around the world what is possible if you have a goal and work hard for it every day. He is a legend of this sport and a great example for everyone.”
Conclusion
Abubakar Nurmagomedov and Khabib Nurmagomedov are cousins who share more than just a last name. They share a passion for MMA, a respect for their culture and a love for their family. They have been through many ups and downs together and have always been there for each other. They are not only related by blood, but also by spirit.
