Khabib Alleges UFC Stalling Russian Fighters’ Progress

Khabib Nurmagomedov, the former Mixed Martial Artist (MMA), has voiced his concerns about what he perceives as unjust treatment of Russian fighters within the UFC. He suggests the promotion is unfairly hindering the progress of some Russian athletes.

According to Nurmagomedov, this pattern is evident in several cases. He highlighted Movsar Evloev, who boasts a 9-0 record in the UFC but has yet to receive a title opportunity. He also noted Muhammad Mokaev’s release from the organization, despite being a strong contender for the flyweight title. Nurmagomedov, known as ‘The Eagle,’ believes these instances create the impression of inequitable treatment.

In a recent interview, Nurmagomedov shared his views on the situation, stating, “I think that feeling started in the last couple of years. When they didn’t give Evloev a shot at 9-0. They were stalling Ankalaev too, really badly. Then there was that whole situation with Mokaev. With Khamzat [Chimaev] it’s his own thing, visas and all that. All of it together, it definitely creates that kind of impression [that the UFC is stalling Russian fighters.]”

Nurmagomedov also addressed the UFC’s emphasis on marketability, suggesting that fighters like Movsar may be disadvantaged due to their reluctance to engage in promotional activities. He stated, “The UFC wants you to be both a great fighter and marketable. The problem with our fighters. Take Movsar, for example. He won’t play those business games.”

Despite these concerns, Nurmagomedov acknowledged that the UFC has not been entirely unfair to these fighters. He pointed out that Ankalaev had a title opportunity in 2022, resulting in a draw against Jan Blachowicz. He also mentioned Evloev’s eleven UFC cancellations out of twenty scheduled fights, and that Mokaev’s situation is confidential.