With the success of former UFC lightweight champion Khabib, the Nurmagomedov name has become all the rage in MMA. With a number of cousins who also fight, the success of “The Eagle” has seen the major promotions sign up several members of the family — as well as seemingly any other Dagestani fighter out there.
At Bellator 263, the lone Nurmagomedov on the Bellator roster was in action. Usman Nurmagomedov, brother of fellow fighter Umar and cousin of Khabib, is more striking-oriented than the rest of the clan. But once again on Saturday at The Forum in Los Angeles, he proved just as successful, shutting down Manny Muro within a round.
Nurmagomedov, who improved to 13-0 with the win, set up the end with a knee to the body in a clinch. Whether it grazed the liver or just hit the solar plexus, the end result was Muro’s body simply giving out. He went down, and Nurmagomedov went in for the kill, adding a shower of ground n’ pound to send the referee in for the save.
The victory was Usman Nurmagomedov’s second in the Bellator cage. With the lightweight division at a standstill, the 23-year old has plenty of time to establish himself as a real threat. At the very least, a bigger name should await Nurmagomedov moving forward.
Overall, it was a very successful night for the Russian/Dagestani contingent. Earlier on the card, Khasan Magomedsharipov, brother of UFC star Zabit, made his debut, earning a TKO victory. Islam Mamedov, who trains alongside Usman under coach Khabib, was also victorious, earning a split decision win against former lightweight champion Brent Primus.
Official Result: Usman Nurmagomedov def. Manny Muro by KO, Round 1, 3:30
