Khabib Nurmagomedov has been one of the biggest names in the MMA circuit. Coming into the UFC, ‘The Eagle’ went undefeated and conquered almost everyone coming in his way. Now, while fans marveled at such a sound technique, a lot of his success was because of his father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. And with his father’s advice elevating him to the peak of MMA success, Khabib did not forget to pay his respects.
In a heartfelt update on social media, ‘The Eagle’ posted a picture of himself with his father. In the caption, he stressed that Abdulmanap was not only his father but also his dearest friend. The undefeated UFC champion further explained that the image he uploaded was from 10 years back.
“My Father, my friend and my coach. He was everything for us Alhamdulillah. Photo was taken 10 years ago. رَحِمَهُ ٱللَّٰهُ,” wrote Khabib.
Khabib Nurmagomedov shares a heartfelt remembrance of his late father:
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) May 19, 2025
“My Father, my friend and my coach. He was everything for us Alhamdulillah. Photo was taken 10 years ago. رَحِمَهُ ٱللَّٰهُ 🤲”
A legacy that lives on forever. 🕊️ pic.twitter.com/Tk2DsJEJ90
Surely, there’s no telling how much his father meant to ‘The Eagle.’ After Abdulmanap’s demise on July 3, 2020, Khabib announced his retirement from mainstream MMA fighting. Meanwhile, Khabib has been busy coaching tomorrow’s upcoming talents. And he has been quite successful in his attempts, so much so that one of his students, Islam Makhachev, has almost overtaken him in terms of legacy.
Islam Makhachev Has Surpassed Khabib Nurmagomedov: Aljamain Sterling
It is often said that a teacher’s true potential lies in their students’ success. And quite rightly so, it looks like Khabib has checked the box. He is already a legendary athlete. As a teacher, too, Islam Makhachev’s success seems to be elevating Khabib. Makhachev is already the king of the lightweight division. And now, looking for his second title, the Dagestani looks to have surpassed Khabib.
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Speaking on the matter, UFC athlete, Aljamain Sterling said, “I think he’s surpassed Khabib, just based on how active he’s been. Khabib had 13 fights — Islam is already past that. In my opinion, he’s surpassed him because of all the incredible guys he’s beaten to get to the belt, and the guys he’s beaten while holding it.”
🤔👀Aljamain Sterling believes Islam Makhachev already has better legacy than Khabib:
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) May 14, 2025
"I think he’s surpassed Khabib, just based on how active he’s been. Khabib had 13 fights — Islam is already past that.
In my opinion, he’s surpassed him because of all the incredible guys he’s… pic.twitter.com/5o1ZOMnr03
Surely, with the Dagestani wrestling style becoming utterly popular, Khabib has successfully fulfilled Abdulmanap’s vision.
