As big of a star as Conor McGregor is in Ireland, Khabib Nurmagomedov is just as big in Russia.
If you’re not a believer, take a look at the above video captured by ESPN’s Brett Okamoto earlier this week.
In effort to send the UFC lightweight champion off in fashion as he gears up for a monumental clash with McGregor next weekend at UFC 229 in Las Vegas, a swarm of fans piled into American Kickboxing Academy to show their support for Nurmagomedov. The scene was pretty wild, especially considering Khabib had no idea it was going to happen.
The undefeated Russian champion issued the following respond to the unexpected surprise:
We could only imagine what would have happened if this circus of followers was present for McGregor’s attack on Khabib’s bus back in April.
Needless to say, Nurmagomedov will be stepping into unfamiliar territory next weekend at UFC 229. He has never fought on such a grand stage and has never encountered a fighter quite as imposing as “Notorious.” Despite his 26-0 professional record, McGregor will be Khabib’s toughest test to date.
Not to fear.
With a massive following of his own, Nurmagomedov may very well feel right at home on Oct. 6 in Las Vegas. It’s going to be a battle of fighting styles and passionate countries, which “Eagle” could win with one single takedown.
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