PhotoCred: Cageside Press
Magomed Magomedkerimov inspired by Khabib Nurmagomedov to continue winning ways in PFL
Russia’s Magomed Magomedkerimov has been able to find inspiration in the form of one of the best to ever do it.
The Makhachkala native is currently 28-5 in his career. With a continually expanding winning streak of 12 straight, an undefeated “Eagle” has been a great example for the former PFL welterweight champion.
“No, it’s no problem,” Magomedkerimov told MyMMANews regarding potential pressure from his winning streak. “I’m training every day. Sparring — one week, two weeks, more. It’s no problem.”
“Khabib Nurmagomedov is a great champion, big star. Me and Khabib have trained together with the kids wrestling in Dagestan gym. Khabib is a UFC champ, I am a PFL champ. We’re friends.”
The 31-year old Magomedkerimov missed out on his second chance at a million dollars last season due to an illness. Now he looks to make up for the loss this time around.
Joao Zeferino — an opponent that was slated for the start of the regular season — will stand in Magomedkerimov’s way as they head into the 2021 playoffs on August 13. The American Top Team product replicated an Alexey Oleynik-taught Ezekiel choke finish to perfection in his last time out against Curtis Millender. Therefore building anticipation for matchups with all three remaining foes.
“Yes, I’m happy [to still be fighting Zeferino],” Magomedkerimov said. “My first season was more difficult because it was the first time. Now I’m ready, I know what I will do, and I will fight everyone.
“I’ve beaten Ray Cooper, I like Rory MacDonald — good fighter, big star. He’s good, yeah.
Despite all his experience accrued to this point, Magomed Magomedkerimov notes that nothing has been bigger in his career than competing on this current stage.
“The PFL experience,” he said regarding his biggest learning experience. “Because every month, every two months is a fight. I’ve had a very big experience with PFL.”
