UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov copied Manchester United forward Cristiano Ronaldo's iconic 'SIU' celebration after scoring twice in a football match.
The UFC legend has been adopting a coaching role in recent weeks as he has been heavily involved in protege Islam Makhachev's training camp ahead of his title bout against Charles Oliveira set for UFC 280 this weekend. Despite no longer competing in the octagon, Nurmagomedov is frequently seen taking part in sport including on the football pitch.
Nurmagomedov played in a friendly match with other members of Makhachev's team including long-term friend Hasbulla who has become a social media star in his own right. Footage has emerged of the match with Nurmagomedov becoming the star of the show bagging two goals during the proceedings in Dubai.
When netting the first of his brace, Nurmagomedov was given the chance to give his side the advantage from the penalty spot after his teammate was clattered from behind inside the 18-yard box. He rifled the ball beyond the keeper who stood helpless, before sprinting away to celebrate in front of the camera.
When he came into picture, Nurmagomedov jumped into the air and recreated Ronaldo's 'SIU' ritual which the goalscoring legend has adopted ever since he signed for Real Madrid back in 2009. Fans and other players have frequently copied the celebration which has become a key part of Ronaldo's brand particularly since his return to the Premier League with the Red Devils.
Ronaldo and Nurmagomedov have met on multiple occasions in the past and were known to be quite good friends while at the peak of their powers in the respective sports.
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The Russian star even revealed the Portuguese talisman had accidentally let slip his transfer back to Old Trafford prior to its confirmation in 2021's summer transfer window. Ronaldo has regularly backed his "brother" Nurmagomedov throughout his UFC career with the Russian even being gifted a shirt by 'CR7'.
Nurmagomedov has also been linked with making a professional appearance in football including last year when reports emerged that he had inked a contract with Russian third-tier side FC Legion Dynamo. However he later downplayed the move but admitted he did have a good relationship with the club.
“I have friendly relations with Legion Dynamo. I have no plan to step on to the field because I fly more than I walk right now," Khabib revealed to RT. “I haven’t signed the contract but I have close relations. I can come in at any time. It all depends on the situations, we’ll see how it goes."
