Khabib reveals the moment he became leader of the Dagestan Clan after his father's death.

Abdulmanap and Khabib Nurmagomedov in a UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @ufc

One of the biggest names in MMA history, Khabib Nurmagomedov is one of the few examples of fighters who have managed to excel not only inside the octagon but also in the corner. Head coach of the Dagestan Clan since his retirement in 2020, "The Eagle" took over the position after the tragic death of his father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, during the Covid-19 pandemic.

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According to what the former fighter said in an interview with 'World Sports Summit' last Monday (29), the change of position within the team ended up happening naturally. At the time, he was already the main reference of the group due to his position as Ultimate lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg).

“Somehow, when I finished my career, I became the oldest member of the team. I need to take the lead. Who will take my place? I can’t just leave them alone. I have to continue carrying on my father’s legacy,” said the Russian, who retired at 32 after submitting Justin Gaethje with a triangle choke.

Khabib Nurmagomedov explains how he became the leader of his team after his father passed away

"Somehow, when I finished my career I became the oldest in my team. I have to take leadership. Who's gonna take over? You cannot just leave them alone.

I have to keep continuing my… pic.twitter.com/EFklpmmMg9

— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) December 30, 2025

Khabib also excels as a coach.

Khabib Nurmagomedov is a former UFC champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/khabib_nurmagomedov

Since changing roles at Eagles MMA, Khabib has been in Islam Makhachev 's corner when he defeated Charles Oliveira and regained the lightweight title (up to 70,3 kg) for the team. Abdulmanap's favorite student recently also reached the top of the welterweight division (up to 77,1 kg). Outside of the UFC, Ramazan Kuramagomedov won the Bellator belt also at 70 kg.

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