Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Cousin to Make Title Defense in Uzbekistan on Nov. 23

Khabib Nurmagomedov's cousin will have a championship fight in Uzbekistan later this year.

Russian fighter Umar Nurmagomedov, who owns an 11-0 professional record, will defend his Gorilla Fighting belt against Nikita Chistyakov on Nov. 23. This news was announced by the UFC lightweight champion. Nurmagomedov vs. Chistyakov will headline the card.

Umar Nurmagomedov has been performing professionally for only three years, but is regarded as one of the top fighters in Russia and also has appeared twice under the Professional Fighters League banner. Chistyakov is slightly more experienced with an 11-5-1 career mark.  

Alexander Skaredin, Chistyakov’s manager, said this is a significant matchup for his fighter.

“This is a serious step in the career. Moreover, it's a fight against Nurmagomedov's undefeated brother. He has already fought in the US in the PFL and he is prophesied to the UFC,” Skaredin said.  “Nikita is going through a preparation period now, he is very charged. We will fight for the title. And the victory over such an opponent will raise Nikita very seriously in the ratings and expand the audience, which is very important in the MMA. If successful, Nikita will seriously declare himself abroad.”

The Nov. 23 GFC card will also feature first MMA tournament to take place in Uzbekistan. Seven fighters from Uzbekistan and six fighters from the "Habib Gym" will perform as a part of the show.