In a lighthearted exchange during a recent training camp, former UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov playfully pointed fingers at video gaming – specifically PUBG – for his cousin Abubakar Nurmagomedov’s professional setbacks.
The revelation came during a training session where Khabib was joined by MMA legend Demetrious Johnson. The conversation turned to Johnson’s gaming habits, particularly his PUBG sessions with Abubakar Nurmagomedov.
“You played with Abu, yes? Back then, guys, because of you, you took him all the time to get him to lose one fight.”
DJ replied: “No, I remember. I remember this. Me, Abubakr, we used to be like this—good people, good shooting, good playing. But now, I haven’t seen him play in a long time. ”
Khabib reiterated: “We broke his computer. I know you think we’re joking, but no,”
Khabib told Johnson in a video, before adding with amusement that Abubakar is booked to return in April.
Abubakar, who made his UFC debut in 2019, has experienced mixed results in his career, standing in contrast to other members of the Nurmagomedov family like Umar and Usman, who maintain undefeated records.
The interaction between Khabib and Johnson showcased the camaraderie between the two sporting legends. Johnson, who recently announced his retirement from MMA after an illustrious career including 11 consecutive UFC title defenses, expressed his current focus on different aspects of martial arts.
“I find more fulfillment in doing jiu-jitsu because I feel like it’s harder. I find more fulfillment in helping and training with different people…with random athletes from my era than continuing to fight in mixed martial arts,” Johnson stated.
The training camp, which also includes former UFC champion Henry Cejudo, is preparation for UFC 311, where Khabib will coach Islam Makhachev and Umar Nurmagomedov. As the event approaches, all eyes will be on Khabib’s coaching prowess and his ability to guide his athletes to victory – presumably with less PUBG in their training regimens.
