Khabib Nurmagomedov took a U-turn and praised the people and government of Ireland recently. The change of stance had the fans divided. While some praised him for his gesture, others were not happy for mixing sports with politics.
The Dagestani retired MMA star has a history with Ireland due to his feud with Conor McGregor. His recent comments on Dagestani supremacy over Irish MMA added duel to the fire. However, at PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series, he shocked the world with his statements.
Just moments after his cousin Usman Nurmagomedov’s win over Ireland’s Paul Hughes, Khabib gave a speech. “The Eagle” went on to hail Ireland for their stance on Palestine. He stated:
“I just want to say one thing. With all the things between me and [Conor McGregor] when we were fighting. Don’t forget, Ireland is the biggest supporter in the world for Palestine. Don’t forget about this. We love you guys! You, your government, everybody. When we’re inside the cage, it’s only competition. MMA, is all about respect. We love you guys because you guys support our brothers in Palestine.”
Fans came up with split reactions in the comment section. While the comments were appreciated by some of them, others opposed the former UFC lightweight champion. Check out some of the reaction below:
“Yea its always about politics with the dagestani terrorist.”
“My GOAT Khabib respectful as always.”
“Why does he care about Palestine so much?”
“Made me like Khabib a little bit.”
“Nah sorry Khabib.”
“Never thought I would agree with Khabib.”
“Respect.”
“I respect khabib as an athlete but he’s a dumb when it comes to this topic.”
Keeping the controversy aside, Khabib Nurmagomedov would be relieved and happy to see his cousin Usman get a big win. This victory comes just days after his cousin Umar Nurmagomedov faced defeat against Merab Dvalishvili in a bantamweight title fight.
Conor McGregor Was Quick To Fire Shots at Khabib Nurmagomedov and his cousins
Paul Hughes showed great flair in his match against Usman Nurmagomedov for the lightweight title. The fight went all 5 rounds with the Dagestani winning the fight via majority decision. The judges scorecards read 47-47, 48-46, 48-46 in favor of Usman.
Hughes supporters showed disappointment over the decision and called for an immediate rematch. With one point deducted as penalty for the Dagestani, many felt the match should have ended in a draw. However, two of the three judges felt otherway.
Conor McGregor reacted to the same applauding his fellow countryman for his performance. He felt that the challenger easily won the fight and went on to mock Khabib Nurmagomedov and his team.
“Easy win for Hughes, he DOMINATED THAT FIGHT. And Umar exactly what it says on the tin, a Nurmagamedov. Runner, sprinter, bolter, scarper, scurrying “fighter”. The Nurmagomedovs are not fighters. They are the most non fighting fighters out of Dagestan and all time.”
Even though fans want to see a rematch, Usman shut down the idea as ge wants Hughes to get 2-3 quality wins to become a contender again. Regarding the future of the fighters, only time will tell weather they fight again or not.
Sachin Singh 
REDDAVENI SAISNEHA