Khabib Nurmagomedov remains an iconic figure in mixed martial arts (MMA). Upon joining the UFC, ‘The Eagle’ maintained an undefeated record, overcoming nearly every challenger in his path. While fans admired his impeccable technical abilities, a significant portion of his triumphs can be attributed to his father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. Khabib has always acknowledged his father’s pivotal role in his rise to the top of the MMA world.
Recently, Khabib shared a poignant memory on social media, posting a photograph of himself with his father. In his caption, he emphasized that Abdulmanap was not just his dad but also his closest friend. He noted that the photograph was taken a decade ago.
“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:
“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
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) May 19, 2025
His father’s influence on Khabib’s career was profound. Following Abdulmanap’s passing on July 3, 2020, Khabib made the decision to retire from professional MMA. Since then, he has dedicated himself to coaching the next generation of fighters. His efforts have yielded impressive results, especially with students like Islam Makhachev, who is rapidly building a legacy of his own.
Islam Makhachev Surpassing Khabib Nurmagomedov: Aljamain Sterling’s Take
The adage “a teacher’s greatness is reflected in their students” rings true in Khabib’s case. He has already established himself as a legendary athlete, and as a coach, Islam Makhachev’s rising success is enhancing Khabib’s legacy. Currently reigning over the lightweight division, Makhachev is in pursuit of his second title and is perceived by some as having outstripped Khabib’s legacy.
UFC competitor Aljamain Sterling remarked, “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 a better legacy than Khabib:
“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
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) May 14, 2025
Clearly, the emergence of Dagestani wrestling as a dominant force in MMA has allowed Khabib to realize his father’s vision for his legacy.
