Khabib Nurmagomedov opened up about learning from Dana White.
UFC President Dana White is largely credited to be the driving force behind the rise of MMA with mainstream audiences. Considered to be one of the best promoters, White has consistently put on some of the most exciting fights that fans want to see. UFC became the most elite organization in the sport under his leadership.
Nurmagomedov believes he has a long way ahead if he is to reach the same heights.
Khabib Nurmagomedov believes he has a lot to learn from Dana White
In a recent interview for Eagle FC, Khabib Nurmagomedov talked about Dana White’s mentorship and how much he’s been able to learn from him.
“Dana White, he’s the best of all time promoter, in my opinion. Nobody’s even close and I try to just learn from him because I’m just beginning. I think I can learn from him a lot of things, like even next 10 years, 20 years, he can teach me I think.”
Khabib shared his thoughts on White not responding to his message calling for a title shot for Islam Makhachev.
“No, I think he play game, even in this situation, I have to learn from him because he told me last time when we talk about promoting, he says, ‘now you’re going to do understand myself more.'”
‘Eagle’ talks about the American dream
The 33-year-old Dagestani believes the American dream is well and alive given what he’s been able to accomplish in the country as an immigrant from Russia.
“American dream is alive. Before, when people talk about American dream I didn’t understand this but now I can understand. I remember myself when I first time when I come to the US, it was beginning, like January 2012. Ten years ago. More than ten years ago.
“Look at now, where I am. Last ten years, I sacrifice everything what I have. I stay focused, I work so hard and now, last ten years I become like champion, defend title, become UFC Hall of Famer, now I have my own promotion and I have so many other businesses.”
“I believe this is from god because not only you there’s so many other people too who work very hard but they don’t get it but I have it. Reason why, because I work so hard then god give you. American dream is true.”
Nurmagomedov sees Eagle FC rise in the next 5-7 years
Khabib was asked about how he would judge the success of his promotion, Eagle FC. The undefeated former UFC champion shared his pragmatic approach to building the brand first in order to be at the top level.
“We need 5-7 years because for this business you have to create content. To create content, you need years and years. We just beginning, we need at least 5-7 years to become on top.”
Khabib hinted at a cross-promotion match with Bellator between Junior Dos Santos and Fedor Emelianenko. However, talks seem to have fizzled out after Dos Santos’ defeat and Fedor’s recent statements denying any interest.
