Khabib Nurmagomedov is ‘stronger than ever’ after bulking up 50lb as cousin reveals latest update on comeback rumors

Khabib Nurmagomedov is still one of the best fighters in the world, even after retiring almost four years ago.

The legendary lightweight champion rarely so much as looked troubled during his remarkable 29-fight unbeaten career. But right at his peak, he decided to hang up the gloves in 2020 at the request of his mother.

Now a coach, he works with some of the best fighters in the world including current UFC champion Islam Makhachev and Bellator’s Usman Nurmagomedov. The latter is defending his belt on Saturday night against Alexander Shabliy in San Diego, and will be cornered by his legendary cousin.

Who is Khabib Nurmagomedov? Inside the life of the most dominant UFC fighter of all timeUsman Nurmagomedov says Khabib Nurmagomedov is still the best fighter on earthDuring not only his camp for tomorrow night, but also Islam Makhachev’s preparation for his fight with Dustin Poirier in June, Usman has been able to train with his cousin Khabib Nurmagomedov. And despite retiring four years ago and bulking up 50lb, or three weight divisions, he maintains he is still the best.

Asked by Bloody Elbow in an exclusive chat if the legendary champion is still as good as ever, Usman replied: “No, he is now 93kg (205lb), and can you imagine some guy who is pound-for-pound king now only stronger than he was?”

As a coach, Khabib has already trained world champions such as Usman in Bellator and Makhachev in the UFC. And he appears to be happy away from competition, still training hard and maintaining an athletic lifestyle without active competition.

Khabib Nurmagomedov definitely won’t be returning, says cousin UsmanSince he decided to hang up his gloves on an emotional night in Abu Dhabi following his win over Justin Gaethje, UFC bosses and fans have been trying to get Khabib Nurmagomedov back in the cage. But he has always turned down all offers, even including a whopping $100million to box with Floyd Mayweather.

And his cousin Usman is confident that Khabib will keep his promise, even if he is regularly bombarded with offers to return. He retired at the top of his game following the passing of his father Abdulmanap, and appears to show no interest in going back even after pressure from UFC CEO Dana White.

Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty ImagesThere have recently been rumors that due to issues in his personal life, he may be forced into a big-money return to action. But that isn’t likely, according to his cousin who trains with him day in and day out.

“I know Khabib is done,” he insisted when asked if there was any chance of a comeback. “If he says something he will follow it. Even when he dies, he will follow it, no matter what anybody says.”

Usman Nurmagomedov details how he benefits from having Khabib in his cornerUsman Nurmagomedov shares a number of things in common with his cousin Khabib. They are both lightweights who ascended to the top of their respective divisions, and the younger cousin has done also done it with an immaculate record.

His last win over Brent Primus was struck off due to a failed drug test which he insists was due to a medicine that included a substance he had no awareness of drinking. Now, he gets a chance to redeem himself after a year out, defending his belt against Shabliy.

Photo by LUCAS NOONAN | BELLATOR MMAAnd he notes that it is a vital part of his fighting journey to be joined by one of the greatest fighters of all time. “It is amazing,” he noted of having Khabib, whom he maintains is still the best in the world to this day, in his corner.

“Every piece of advice that he gives me, I try to realize in my life and when I try and it happens, I feel how it is easy. I am so happy that he is back in my corner, and Saturday night we are going to see what will happen.”

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