Former UFC Lightweight Champion and Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov is ready to assist soccer legend Patrice Evra as the ex-Manchester United player prepares for his mixed martial arts debut in the PFL on May 23rd.
After announcing his intention to compete in MMA, Evra contacted Nurmagomedov for a discussion. Evra clarified that his venture into fighting is not merely a quest for attention but a serious commitment. The 43-year-old former French international emphasized his dedication to rigorous preparation for this new challenge.
“I need to train,” Evra stated during his conversation with Nurmagomedov. “I need to take it seriously. You know how much respect I have for you, for the sport, which is why I really need to have a training session with you. Because I want to know from the best.”
Nurmagomedov, a well-known football fan, readily offered his support to Evra, especially given that both are currently residing in Dubai while Evra is getting ready for his first fight.
Khabib reiterated his offer: “I told you many times, send me location and I`m going to find you. Send location, tell me where are you? When I see you, you have to be ready and that`s it. Other things, I`m going to take care of. I`m going to teach you how to smash people.”
Nurmagomedov is widely considered one of the premier coaches in MMA today, having guided numerous champions, including current UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev and PFL Lightweight Champion Usman Nurmagomedov.
Since retiring from professional competition, Khabib has primarily dedicated himself to coaching. He is renowned for his intense training methods and his commitment to pushing his fighters to their maximum potential. It appears he is prepared to potentially add Evra to his list of trainees whenever they can arrange a suitable time to work together.
Nurmagomedov concluded their exchange by saying, “I just want you to improve yourself. Nothing else. It`s very good to see you and finally I hope you`re going to send me location and then we will train together.”
Patrice Evra`s PFL debut is scheduled for the upcoming event in Paris, France, on May 23rd, taking place at the Accor Arena.
Duncan Priestley