Why Khabib Preferred Umar to Challenge Merab

In August 2024, Khabib Nurmagomedov said he would rather see his cousin Umar challenge Merab Dvalishvili than Sean O’Malley for the UFC bantamweight title. In an interview reported by MMA Junkie via Yahoo Sports, Khabib explained his preference by pointing to Merab’s Georgian roots and the rivalry’s regional significance. The comment came after Umar’s victory over Cory Sandhagen and before O’Malley’s title defense at UFC 306.

A preference shaped by the region

Khabib’s answer was a personal preference, not a claim that O’Malley was an unworthy opponent. The Dagestani former champion pointed to Merab’s Georgian background and the neighboring regions’ significance. The exchange also invoked the traditional papakha hats associated with the fighters and their communities.

At the time, Umar had just beaten Sandhagen by unanimous decision in Abu Dhabi on August 3, 2024, strengthening his case for a title opportunity. Merab was scheduled to challenge O’Malley at UFC 306 on September 14. Merab won that bout by unanimous decision, becoming champion, according to the UFC’s official scorecards.

The matchup eventually happened

Umar later challenged Merab for the championship at UFC 311 on January 18, 2025. Merab retained the belt by unanimous decision, with the judges scoring the fight 48–47, 48–47 and 49–46. The official scorecards confirm the result. Khabib’s preferred matchup took place, but the champion prevailed over his cousin.

Khabib’s comment reflected a family perspective and the regional rivalry he thought fans would appreciate. It did not decide the title path; Umar’s results and the UFC’s matchmaking did.

Sources

Sources: MMA Junkie via Yahoo Sports on Khabib’s preference; UFC Abu Dhabi results; UFC 306 official scorecards; UFC 311 official scorecards; video: UFC Eurasia.

Sources: mmamania.com; ufc.com

Tags

MMA, Combat Sports