Petr Yan Says Khabib Nurmagomedov's Influence Has Helped His Cousin in the UFC

Petr Yan is a former UFC champion. Photo: Reproduction X/espnmma

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After achieving his third consecutive victory last Saturday (26), Petr Yan does not seem happy with the direction the bantamweight division (up to 61,2 kg) has been taking recently. According to the Russian, the opportunities that Umar Nurmagomedov has received within the company have arisen thanks to the influence of Khabib Nurmagomedov and the former lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg).

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In an ironic tone, the former bantamweight champion (up to 61,2 kg) did not appear interested in sharing the octagon with his compatriot, in addition to expressing his opinion regarding the importance of Umar's surname.

“Well, Umar lost the last fight, he hasn’t had a single fight since then, they have the option to wait and not train at all, it could be a year, six months. I need to act, work, pave the way for myself with my work. Neither my brother nor my sisters gave me anything,” Yan said in an interview with Ushatayka recorded after the fight and published last Sunday (27).

Petr Yan is asked about a potential fight against Umar Nurmagomedov next:

"Well, Umar lost his last fight. He hasn't had a single fight since. They have the option to wait and not train at all…

I need to act, to work, to pave the way for myself with my labor. Neither my… pic.twitter.com/aPLnerxfz0

— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) July 27, 2025

Umar Nurmagomedov was defeated by Merab Dvalishvili

Merab Dvalishvili defended his title for the first time against Umar Nurmagomedov . Photo: Reproduction X/UFC News

Umar Nurmagomedov 's undefeated streak came to an end in the main event of UFC 311 earlier this year. On that occasion, the Russian fought for the title against Merab Dvalishvili , and despite starting the fight well, he was ultimately defeated by unanimous decision.

He hasn't returned to the octagon since then. Besides the defeat, the Russian also had to undergo surgery on his right hand, which was fractured during the fight. More recently, Khabib himself publicly stated that his cousin's return is imminent.

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