Eagle Mania?
Former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) lightweight titleholder Khabib Nurmagomedov, who walked away from mixed martial arts (MMA) after submitting Justin Gaethje at UFC 254, has lots of free time on his hands.
In between his “me time” with sheep.
That’s why World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) superstar Drew McIntyre wants “The Eagle” to transition to professional wrestling, where a seasoned mouthpiece like Paul Heyman can help the Dagestani grappler become a “huge star.”
“He’s so talented that I reckon he could make some noise, and if he can’t make the noise himself, we’ve got Paul Heyman,” McIntyre told TMZ Sports (transcribed by Adam Martin). “We’ve got a few talented people that can carry the load when it comes to talking. I know ‘MVP’ has done a heck of a job for (Bobby) Lashley. But yeah, he’s such an amazing performer in the UFC. If he can’t quite figure out that part, we’ll make it work. I think the fans would be very excited to see him.”
WWE is no stranger to former UFC champions. Ex-bantamweight titleholder Ronda Rousey made her way to the land of make believe back in early 2018. Shortly thereafter, Cain Velasquez, who once held the UFC heavyweight strap, dropped in to feud with Brock Lesnar.
And Khabib could help WWE land this long sought-after talent.
That said, it’s hard to imagine the 5’10” Khabib making any kind of impact in WWE simply because of his frame. Exceptions exist, of course, like Rey Mysterio Jr., but I’m not sure the stoic “Eagle” would be able to embrace the acrobatic pageantry of professional wrestling.
Which is why this ex-champ got cut.