When UFC flyweight Tagir Ulanbekov complained about his opponent’s tactics during a bout against Tim Elliott, he received a response from his coach Khabib Nurmagomedov that perfectly encapsulates the Dagestani MMA philosophy.
During the intense bout, Ulanbekov found himself in a difficult situation when Elliott employed some questionable tactics. “Tim just put his fingers in my gloves and I couldn’t pull it back,” Ulanbekov explained. “I was trying to get it out and he was punching me. I couldn’t take him down.”
Frustrated by what he perceived as cheating, Ulanbekov called out to his corner where Khabib was providing guidance. “I was shouting to Khabib, ‘Hey, he’s grabbing my glove!'”
According to Ulanbekov, Elliott proved to be a particularly challenging opponent with unorthodox methods. “He’s a very dirty fighter, very dirty,” Ulanbekov stated. The Dagestani fighter described multiple instances of foul play, including an eye poke that caused nearly two weeks of discomfort afterward.
“When he pushed me to the net, I pushed him to the net so the judge wouldn’t see,” Ulanbekov recounted. “I don’t know how he did it, but this big finger pushed me straight into the eye.”
What makes this story particularly noteworthy is Khabib’s blunt response to his fighter’s complaints. Rather than sympathizing or escalating the issue with officials, Khabib reportedly responded with practical fighting advice: “Hold him by his glove.”
This pragmatic approach reflects the tough, no-excuses mentality cultivated in the Nurmagomedov gym. Under the guidance of Khabib and previously his father Abdulmanap, fighters are taught to overcome obstacles rather than complain about them.
The Nurmagomedov training facility in Dagestan has developed a reputation for its strict disciplinary code and unwavering focus on results. Fighters are held to exacting standards of conduct and appearance, with even hairstyles regulated to maintain proper discipline.
This coaching philosophy has produced remarkable results, with numerous champions and contenders emerging from their training system. The emphasis remains on sacrifice, consistency, and mental toughness—qualities that Khabib himself embodied throughout his undefeated career.
Ulanbekov’s anecdote serves as a revealing glimpse into the straightforward, adaptation-focused mindset that continues to define one of combat sports’ most successful training camps. When faced with adversity, fighters are expected to find solutions rather than seek sympathy—a lesson Ulanbekov clearly received during his challenging matchup against Elliott.
