Sometimes, friendship means making tough choices, even if it is not in your interests. This is the case with Daniel Cormier, the former two-division UFC champion, recently shared an eye-opening story about how his buddy Khabib Nurmagomedov made him rethink his approach to rivalries in MMA.
Back in Abu Dhabi, during one of Dustin Poirier’s fights, ‘DC ‘found himself being pretty friendly with Conor McGregor. It was the usual fighter small talk, handshakes, and general pleasantries. Well, Nurmagomedov didn’t quite see it that way. ‘The Eagle,’ known for his unwavering principles, pulled his friend aside and scolded him.
“We were shaking hands, talking a little bit, and very kind of chumy. And Khabib was like, ‘Brother, I don’t understand this! If I see Conor with his wife, I’ll shake his hand because that’s what you’re supposed to do. But brother?’… Look at the stance he’s taken in regards to everyone you deal with. Why wouldn’t you take that same stance? So things have changed now,” said Cormier via 3 rounds on his YT channel.
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s perspective was simple but powerful. He told Daniel Cormier that even though he would shake McGregor’s hand if he saw him with his wife, the idea of being “chummy” with a bitter rival didn’t sit right with him.
The conversation struck a chord with Cormier, who realized that friendship isn’t just about sharing good times. It is about understanding and respecting each other’s boundaries and values. As he put it, “Khabib’s not just a teammate, he’s family.” And family comes with certain expectations, even if they might seem a bit strict to outsiders.
Khabib Nurmagomedov Doesn’t Think He Will Ever Be Friends With Jon Jones Despite No Beef With Him
The MMA world has always been about more than just fighting – it’s about loyalty and respect. In the early 2010s, two legends emerged who would forever change the sport: Khabib Nurmagomedov and Jon Jones. While both fighters carved their paths to greatness, their personal connections took an interesting turn recently.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral MMA stories via Google! Follow Us
Khabib Nurmagomedov recently made headlines with a straightforward declaration about his relationship with Jones. He revealed that he won’t be friends with Jones, not because of any personal beef or drama, but because of his unwavering loyalty to Daniel Cormier.
“There was never any disagreement with Jones. He is a great fighter and it will be hard to compete with him. But my friend [Daniel] Cormier is in conflict and automatically he cannot be my friend. I am not friends with those whom my friends are not friends,” Nurmagomedov wrote on his Instagram Story.
The situation gets even more interesting when you consider Jones’ recent praise for Khabib Nurmagomedov. He spoke highly of the Dagestani’s character, business acumen, and representation of both his faith and homeland. The undefeated fighter’s stance is rooted in his friendship with DC, and his loyalty shows.
Also Read: Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Coach Compares Khamzat Chimaev’s Ground Game To His Star Pupils
