WATCH: Khabib Nurmagomedov Engages in Mountain Run Ahead of UFC 254 Title Defense

Winning 28 straight MMA fights is no mean feat, and to do so by dropping only one round in total makes it even more special. Khabib Nurmagomedov is putting in the hard yards ahead of his next title defense as he aims to go 29-0 to set up a farewell fight against GSP. The fighter engaged in a run to help boost his cardio ahead of UFC 254.

He posted a video on Instagram and is seen running up an inclining road and round a bend. He looked determined and isn’t looking at the camera but straight ahead. 

‘The Eagle’ wrote, “Preparation continues, 54 days before the fight. If there is nothing to do, make a run to the mountains. I answer it will help to gather thoughts and gain good energy. So to be honest (Islam Makhachev) this is a run for you, for your caught duck remember?”

Time away from the gym will help anyone breathe fresh air and train in the open for a while. It offers them an alternative to the treadmill that fighters use to drop their weight during the weight cut process. 

Khabib Nurmagomedov leaves no stone unturned ahead of UFC return

Nurmagomedov uses a wrestling heavy offense and controls his opponents on the ground for a large duration of his fights. Despite the effort he exerts in squeezing the energy out of his foes, ‘The Eagle’ never appears out of breath. This is a testament to his conditioning. 

WATCH: Khabib Nurmagomedov Begins Training for Justin Gaethje

The countdown for Khabib Nurmagomedov vs Justin Gaethje has begun. In September, it will be a year since Khabib last competed. The time away could result in him being rusty as he experienced last year against Dustin Poirier.

At UFC 242, ‘The Diamond’ had the UFC lightweight champion in a guillotine hold. This will be very fresh in Nurmagomedov’s mind as he gears up to face his toughest challenger. Justin Gaethje is an All-American wrestler and will attempt to break free of ‘the leg wrap’ and could pose a formidable challenge on the ground. 

Containing ‘The Highlight’ will be a strain on Khabib’s reserves. But, as a champion, it is a challenge he must accept and prepare for. Fans will hope to see Khabib Nurmagomedov clinch a momentous win after the troubles he has endured in 2020.