UFC lightweight Khabib Nurmagomedov’s father, Abdulmanap, believes it is not possible for his son to compete at 100 percent in his first fight back in two years.
Rooted in realism because of his sobering background and harsh upbringing, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov has never been one to mince words.
The father of UFC lightweight Khaibib Nurumagomedov, as well as his lifelong Sambo and wrestling coach, revealed that he does not expect his son to return to the UFC at 100 percent following a two-year absence from the sport. While he does expect Khabib to eventually regain his form, he doubt it will be an immediate process.
“After two years of inactivity, no fighter will show 100% capacity,” Abdulmanap revealed. “There is such a thing as muscle memory and it is very difficult after such a long break to return at one hundred percent.”
However, Abdulmanap also added that if Khabib is able to overcome a rising contender like Tony Ferguson, who he will meet in the main event of UFC on FOX 19 in April, he is ready to challenge for the lightweight title.
“If we are in such a state and will beat Ferguson, then we are ready for further growth and at this weight and the weight above.”
UFC on FOX 19 takes place April 16 at the Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida.