WATCH: Usman Nurmagomedov Walks Out to Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Music as Khabib Nurmagomedov Corners Him During Bellator Debut

Published 04/03/2021, 1:19 AM EDT

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Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has improved his record as a coach and has gone 4-0 in 2021. ‘The Eagle’ cornered yet another debutant fighter in Usman Nurmagomedov at Bellator 255. The card’s headliner saw Patricio ‘Pitbull’ Freire taking on Emmanuel Sanchez for the featherweight title. Chiefly, Usman Nurmagomedov got plenty of exposure from the magnitude of the card.

Usman Nurmagomedov defeated Mike Hamel via unanimous decision in a comprehensive three-round effort. The 12-0 fighter rounded off the night with a 29-28, 30-27, 30-27 across the scorecards and cemented his status as an elite talent. Additionally, the victory bodes well for Khabib Nurmagomedov as well who has legitimized himself as a coach.

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Furthermore, Usman Nurmagomedov walked out to Khabib Nurmagomedov’s iconic walk-out music Dagestan by SABINA. The 12-0 fighter clearly draws plenty of inspiration from his mentor and coach.

Khabib Nurmagomedov has effortlessly transitioned into his role as a Head Coach to the next generation of Dagestani fighters. Heading into the contest, ‘The Eagle’ took to social media and sent a shout-out to his debuting pupil. Unlike other Eagles’ MMA fighters, Usman Nurmagomedov is embarking on a journey outside the UFC.

Fans were excited to see Khabib Nurmagomedov back in action as he’s truly done with fighting as it stands. Going forward, watching Khabib cage-side may be the only opportunity that fans have to catch the 29-0 icon under the bright lights.

Bellator 255: Usman Nurmagomedov vs Mike Hamel

Usman Nurmagomedov displayed a varied striking arsenal in his debut and is much more than just a grappler like some would assume. Right from the get-go, Usman Nurmagomedov landed heavy kicks that were clearly accruing damage with each blow. Mike Hamel showed that he was game, but wasn’t able to get the upper hand in the contest.

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As the fight progressed through the second round, Usman Nurmagomedov sat behind a jab and picked Mike Hamel apart. What’s more, it was clear that Hamel was behind on the scorecards as he tried to ramp up his offense. However, he was simply awarded with hard-hitting blows to the body that took the wind out of his sails.

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Hamel’s face was significantly bloodied as the fight drew to a close, and he looked for a takedown to secure a dominant position. However, Usman Nurmagomedov had other plans and picked up the pace to ensure he finished off strong with a flurry.

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Written by:

Darryl Pinto

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Darryl Pinto is a senior MMA writer at EssentiallySports. He is currently pursuing his graduate degree in Mass Media (with a specialization in Journalism) out of Xavier’s College and has a year's experience in his current role. Darryl specializes in predictions, reporting, and covering UFC events live.
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