Analysts question the future of the Nurmagomedov coaching dynasty
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 7:38 AM
Last updated Sep 4, 2026

The coaching legacy established by Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov faces scrutiny following recent performances by team members in the UFC and PFL. While Islam Makhachev recently defended his welterweight championship against Ian Garry, the narrow victory fueled concerns regarding the team's continued dominance. Further complications emerged after Yadong Song delivered a knockout loss to Umar Nurmagomedov this past weekend. This outcome marks a departure from the aura of inevitability previously surrounding the team. Khabib Nurmagomedov continues to guide the squad, but questions persist about the long-term trajectory for fighters following their first professional defeats or nearing the end of title reigns. The team now faces potential challenges from physical contenders like Carlos Prates and Michael Morales as they attempt to maintain their established status in the sport.
- •Islam Makhachev defended his welterweight title against Ian Garry in a narrow decision win.
- •Yadong Song defeated Umar Nurmagomedov via an uppercut knockout this past weekend.
- •Usman Nurmagomedov currently holds championships in Bellator MMA and the PFL.
- •The coaching team transitioned to Khabib Nurmagomedov following the death of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov in 2020.
- 7:38 AMYahoo Sports — Opinion: Are cracks beginning to show in the Nurmagomedov dynasty?
"Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov created one of MMA’s great coaching legacies, but recent setbacks raise questions about whether the team built around his methods has already reached its peak.
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