Gilbert Burns has voiced sharp criticism of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s teaching efficiency throughout Umar Nurmagomedov’s first skilled loss at UFC 311. Umar was cornered by Khabib and confronted Merab Dvalishvili for the UFC bantamweight throne and earned a choice loss.
Gilbert Burns on Khabib Nurmagomedov’s teaching
Talking on his podcast, the Brazilian welterweight famous that Khabib, whereas a legendary fighter, nonetheless lacks expertise as a head coach in high-pressure conditions. “I have so much respect for the Dagestani guys and Khabib, but I just gotta say this—Khabib Nurmagomedov as a main coach, people gonna hate on this, still got to improve a lot,” Burns stated.
Brazil’s Burns referred to a pivotal second within the struggle when Umar, dealing with bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili, appeared visibly fatigued. Gilbert Burns claimed Khabib Nurmagomedov and his nook failed to supply the required calm and route.
“When Umar started getting tired, he came to the corner with those ‘question eyes,’ like he didn’t know what to do,” the welterweight defined. “And when I looked at Khabib and his corner, they had the same eyes—like, ‘Oh my God.’”
The struggle, held on January 18, 2025, on the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, noticed Umar undergo his first profession loss by way of unanimous resolution. Regardless of a powerful begin, a damaged hand early within the struggle derailed his efficiency, and Dvalishvili capitalized on the opening.
Burns highlighted the distinction between Khabib’s cornering and the work of veteran coaches like Henri Hooft and Cesar “Parrumpa” Carneiro, who’ve in depth expertise guiding fighters via adversity.
“Guys like Parrumpa and Henry, they calm you down and tell you exactly what to do—‘You lost that round, now do this and this.’ They’ve been in so many corners, you can’t even count,” The Brazilian defined.
The Dagestani Khabib coached a number of fighters at UFC 311, together with Islam Makhachev and Tagir Ulanbekov, acknowledged the difficulties of the night time. He expressed his willpower to assist Umar get well from the setback, vowing to study from the expertise.
Gilbert Burns’ feedback, whereas vital, include respect for Khabib’s legacy. “I have a lot of respect for him, but coaching takes time and repetition,” he added.
The loss marks a turning level for Umar Nurmagomedov, who had remained undefeated in 18 skilled bouts previous to the struggle. With Khabib in his nook, his journey towards redemption might be carefully watched.
