The Nurmagomedov name has become synonymous with undefeated fight careers and dominant performances in the lightweight division. This legacy continued on Saturday night in San Diego, as Usman Nurmagomedov, cousin of former UFC champion Khabib, successfully defended his Bellator lightweight championship with a one-sided unanimous decision victory over former champ Brent Primus in the main event of Bellator 300. At just 25 years old, Nurmagomedov showcased his skills in a bout that also served as a semifinal of the Bellator Lightweight World Grand Prix. With his impressive victory, Nurmagomedov now awaits the winner of the Nov. 17 semifinal between Patricky “Pitbull” Freire and Alexander Shabliy.
Unlike his cousin Khabib, who primarily relied on smothering wrestling to achieve his undefeated record, Usman Nurmagomedov dominated his fight against Brent Primus primarily with striking. His relentless array of kicks to the legs, torso, and head left Primus damaged and unable to mount a serious threat throughout the five rounds. Nurmagomedov established his dominance early on, ending the first round with a significant lead in strikes landed. Primus kept coming forward, but Nurmagomedov’s evasive techniques and effective counterpunches and takedowns ensured his victory. By the end of the fight, Primus’ face displayed the effects of Nurmagomedov’s striking, exhibiting multiple cuts and bruises.
Usman Nurmagomedov was not the only champion to shine at Bellator 300. In the co-main event, women’s featherweight champ Cris Cyborg displayed her dominance by mauling Cat Zingano in the first round. Cyborg, who had not fought in nearly a year and a half, showed no signs of rust and secured her seventh consecutive victory. With this win, Cyborg achieved her fifth title defense, solidifying her status as one of the greatest fighters in women’s MMA history.
Another thrilling bout on the card featured Liz Carmouche scoring a fourth-round TKO against former women’s flyweight champ Ilima-Lei Macfarlane. The fight showcased the mutual respect between Carmouche and Macfarlane, who were former training partners and friends. Although the engagement between the two fighters was minimal, Carmouche’s devastating leg kicks left Macfarlane hobbled. In the fifth round, Macfarlane’s preexisting knee injury was further aggravated, resulting in her defeat.
After her impressive triumph, Cris Cyborg called for her next title defense to be against Leah McCourt, who secured a first-round TKO victory over Sara McMann in the prelims. Cyborg’s dominance and power were evident throughout her bout, and she believes that McCourt is the next deserving challenger for her championship.
Bellator 300 was initially set to feature four title bouts. However, Ryan Bader’s heavyweight defense was canceled when his opponent, Linton Vassell, withdrew due to an unspecified illness. The unfortunate turn of events left the main card with three title fights instead.
With Usman Nurmagomedov’s dominant performance, the Nurmagomedov legacy continues to thrive in the world of MMA. As the cousin of Khabib Nurmagomedov, Usman proved that he is a force to be reckoned with in the lightweight division. His striking ability and evasive maneuvers were on full display, solidifying his status as a top contender in Bellator. As fans await the final of the Bellator Lightweight World Grand Prix, Usman prepares to face either Patricky “Pitbull” Freire or Alexander Shabliy, knowing that he has the skills and determination to conquer yet another challenge in his undefeated career.
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