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Usman Nurmagomedov is rapidly making his mark in the lightweight division of Bellator, but when it comes to the best fighter on the planet, his loyalty lies with his teammate, Islam Makhachev.
Ahead of his title defense at Bellator San Diego this weekend, the 26-year-old didn’t shy away from ranking himself just behind Makhachev, openly admitting he’s still got more to prove at the pre-event press conference.
With his upcoming clash against Alexandr Shabliy, Usman knows the spotlight is on him, but he’s more than happy to let Makhachev take the crown for now.
Makhachev, ranked No. 1 on many fans and outlet’s pound-for-pound list, has been nothing short of dominant. After racking up 14 straight wins and three title defenses, Usman isn’t bothered to play second fiddle to a fighter with that kind of resume.
“Islam’s on top right now,” Usman said without hesitation. “He’s the pound-for-pound king. Just look at the way he’s been fighting. It’s undeniable.”
Yet, not everyone agrees. UFC boss Dana White has been adamant that Jon Jones, the reigning heavyweight champ, still holds the throne in MMA. In fact, White doubled down recently, releasing a hype video to remind everyone just how legendary Jones’ career has been.
While Usman fully respects Jones’ accomplishments, especially as someone who grew up watching his fights, he firmly believes Makhachev’s recent run puts him at the top of the pound-for-pound list right now.
“For this moment, Islam is number one,” Usman stated confidently. “But don’t get me wrong—Jon Jones is a legend. Nobody can take that away from him. I watched him dominate for years. His mentality, his style, everything about him screams greatness. But we’re talking about right now. In the present. And right now, Islam is the best.”
For Usman, training alongside Makhachev has played a crucial role in his own rise. He sees his daily sessions with the UFC champ as a constant test, sharpening his skills for anyone who stands across from him in the cage. As he prepares for Shabliy, he’s confident nothing in the fight will match the intensity of his sparring exchanges with Makhachev.
“Training with Islam? That’s a whole different level,” Usman explained. “You get in there with him, and you immediately understand why no one can beat him. It’s not just physical—it’s the mental game too. Shabliy? I don’t think he can push me the way Islam does. No one can.”
If Makhachev’s presence isn’t already a big enough advantage, Usman has another ace up his sleeve: his cousin, UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, is back in his corner. After taking some time away to focus on family and business, Khabib is returning to guide Usman in this fight, adding another layer of support for the Bellator champ.
“Khabib’s influence in MMA is unmatched,” Usman said proudly. “He’s not only one of the greatest fighters to ever do it, but he’s also one of the greatest minds in the game. Between his experience as a fighter, his work with our father Abdulmanap, and now as a coach, there’s no one like him. Having him in my corner is a game-changer.”
With his training camp complete and his corner stacked with legends, Usman is ready to put on a show this Saturday. While he respects Shabliy’s skills, he doesn’t see any way the challenger can get the upset.
“I’m prepared for anything,” Usman said, his confidence clear. “Sure, lucky punches happen, but if everything goes how it should, there’s no chance Shabliy—or anyone else—can beat me right now.”