Usman Nurmagomedov says Khabib will still help him out despite not being in his corner at Bellator 292.
Lightweight champion Nurmagomedov (16-0 MMA, 5-0 BMMA) defends his title against Benson Henderson (30-11MMA, 7-6 BMMA) in the quarterfinals of the Bellator grand prix on March 10 in San Jose, Calif.
Khabib may have officially stepped from coaching and cornering duties, but Nurmagomedov said his cousin still gives him advice in and out of the cage.
“Khabib is my brother; he’s my cousin,” Nurmagomedov told MMA Junkie and other reporters. “We’re not only talking about sport, we are family too. He’s my brother.”
Nurmagomedov meets former UFC lightweight champion Henderson, who defeated his teammate Islam Mamedov by split decision at Bellator 273 last January. Nurmagomedov was in Mamedov’s corner for that fight.
“He’s a legend, brother,” Nurmagomedov said of Henderson. “Good experience for me, and I will be ready. … I know what he will do, but this is five rounds, big fight, and I hope he will be healthy and in good shape.”
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for Bellator 292.
