Daniel Cormier TV - BEST OF UFC 311: Islam Makhachev, Umar Nurmagomedov, Merab Dvalishvili

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: Daniel Cormier TV - BEST OF UFC 311: Islam Makhachev, Umar Nurmagomedov, Merab Dvalishvili
Release Date: January 25, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

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Introduction

In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, listeners are treated to an in-depth discussion focusing on the highlights of UFC 311. The conversation primarily revolves around top fighters Islam Makhachev, Umar Nurmagomedov, and Merab Dvalishvili. Hosted by Andrea Waters King, the episode delves into the fighters' preparations, personal lives, and their perspectives on upcoming bouts. The episode also features interactions with MMA legend Khabib Nurmagomedov, providing a comprehensive look into the current state of the UFC lightweight and bantamweight divisions.

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Interview with Islam Makhachev

Preparation for UFC 311

Islam Makhachev opens up about his preparation for defending his championship at UFC 311. When asked about his current state, he succinctly responds:

• “Drinking water, cutting weight. That's it.” [03:11]

Personal Life and Family

Makhachev shares insights into his family life, emphasizing his deep-rooted connections and responsibilities:

• “I built a new house.” [04:05]

He discusses living arrangements and familial support, highlighting the influence of his parents:

• “Mine not so big. I live with my grandmother, my father, mother. But it's big, but not crazy big.” [04:18]

Training Camp in Las Vegas

The fighters recently trained in Las Vegas, where Makhachev praises the facilities and support provided by the UFC Performance Institute (PI):

• “It's so good, you know, training there, brand new facilities, recovery training, training, like UFC PI team. It's so good.” [07:17]

Upcoming Fight Expectations

Discussing his upcoming fight against Arman Rakhmanov, Makhachev expresses confidence while acknowledging his opponent's growth:

• “He's a big guy now. He’s big experience and one of the best in our division.” [08:48]

Interaction with Khabib Nurmagomedov

A notable segment features Makhachev's interaction with former champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. The conversation takes a lighthearted turn as they discuss the concept of being "gangsters," leading to playful banter about street credibility and respect.

• “Gangsters always hide. He can't walk, brother.” [14:32]
• “When I tell you sit like that. I'm confident. I want to tell sit like this because it's comfortable for me.” [19:06]

This interaction not only showcases the camaraderie between the fighters but also adds a personal touch to the discussion, highlighting their off-ring relationships.

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Interview with Merab Dvalishvili

Recent Fights and Performance

Merab Dvalishvili reflects on his recent victory, emphasizing his strategy and preparation:

• “I beat Shawn O'Malley easy way and wasn't hard to watch Umar's fight. Yeah, he did good against Corey Sanhagen.” [25:21]

Title Contention and Being an Underdog

Dvalishvili discusses the challenges of being labeled an underdog and his views on the current title scene:

• “I'm underdog because I have to show up. And I believe hard work will pay off.” [29:21]
• “Marlon Vera after one fight, and you after five.” [17:53]

He criticizes the perception of deserving title shots, advocating for more rigorous competition:

• “He should have fought Song Gi Dong and stay busy and don’t pull out and just prove it like the rest of us.” [26:49]

Training and Fight Preparation

Highlighting his dedication, Dvalishvili details his training regimen and focus areas leading up to the fight:

• “Perfect night will be punch his face. Much as, like, a lot of punches in the face, damage in the head.” [30:32]

Personal Life and Life as Champion

Despite his status, Dvalishvili maintains a grounded perspective on his life outside the octagon:

• “Life? Not much. I'm still the same guy, I'm still living the same house.” [27:14]

He acknowledges the increased respect and support that comes with being a champion but remains humble about his roots.

Interactions with Fans and Social Media

Addressing the challenges of fame, Dvalishvili speaks about handling negativity and maintaining focus:

• “I have to block so many people every day because they just disrespect me.” [29:37]

He emphasizes the importance of self-focus and resilience in the face of online criticism.

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Conclusion

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers listeners a nuanced look into the lives and minds of top UFC fighters Islam Makhachev and Merab Dvalishvili. Through candid conversations, the fighters reveal their training philosophies, personal struggles, and aspirations within the highly competitive world of mixed martial arts. The inclusion of Khabib Nurmagomedov adds an extra layer of depth, highlighting the mentorship and enduring friendships that shape these athletes' careers. Fans of UFC and MMA will find this episode both insightful and engaging, providing a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the preparation and mindset of champions gearing up for UFC 311.

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Notable Quotes:

• “Drinking water, cutting weight. That's it.” – Islam Makhachev [03:11]
• “Gangsters always hide. He can't walk, brother.” – Khabib Nurmagomedov [14:32]
• “I'm the president, USA. Nobody can say I'm not.” – Khabib Nurmagomedov [15:27]
• “I beat Shawn O'Malley easy way and wasn't hard to watch Umar's fight.” – Merab Dvalishvili [25:21]
• “I'm underdog because I have to show up. And I believe hard work will pay off.” – Merab Dvalishvili [29:21]
• “Perfect night will be punch his face. Much as, like, a lot of punches in the face, damage in the head.” – Merab Dvalishvili [30:32]

Transcript

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[Bobby Bones]

Hey, it's Bobby Bones. Join me and former NFL quarterback Matt Castle every Wednesday for our new podcast, Lots to say with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle. Between us, we have over 17,500 passing yards, multiple New York Times bestsellers, and one mirrorball trophy from Dancing with a Star. So where else you can find a show with that much athleticism and football insight? We talk sports, but we talk pop culture and music. Music and a little bit of everything. Listen to Lots to Say with Bobby Bones and Matt castle on the iHeartRadio app, Apple podcast or wherever you get your podcasts.

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I'm so sick of hearing men talk about women's basketball. This is Lexi Brown and Mariah Rose, and we've got a new podcast, Full Circle. Every Wednesday, we're catching you up on what's going on in women's basketball. We've got you with analysis, inside stories, and a little bit of tea. Full circle is an iHeart woman's production in partnership with Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment. Listen to Full circle on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Presented by Elf Beauty, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports.

[Martin Luther King III]

Welcome to my legacy. I'm Martin Luther King iii, and together with my wife, Andrea Waters King, and our dear friends Mark and Craig Kilburger, we explore the personal journeys that shape extraordinary lives.

[Andrea Waters King]

Join us for heartfelt conversations with remarkable guests like David Oyelowo, Mel Robbins, Martin Sheen, Dr. Sanjay Gupta and Billy Porter.

[T-Mobile Representative]

Listen to my legacy on the iHeartRadio.

[Bobby Bones]

App, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Andrea Waters King]

This is my legacy.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

The Vol.

[Andrea Waters King]

This is nice jacket. Canada Goose. Very expensive. No, I know, brother.

[Islam Makhachev]

Canada Goose is not like so expensive.

[Andrea Waters King]

I know. This is expensive clothes. Here you go. I want you to have this, though. You take this. This is for you. They have Khabib. Look Khabib like Godfather. You know you champion Umar. Thanks for checking in with me. It fell. I don't know how to do this. Luis, why don't you come do it.

[Islam Makhachev]

They have new technology that's put like. No, without this magnet. With magnet wire. This is a magnet? Yeah.

[Andrea Waters King]

No, this is not good.

[Islam Makhachev]

Why not?

[Andrea Waters King]

This will have better. Clear. More Already better. Clear. Oh, man. Thanks for checking in with me, guys. Oh, my boy Islam Makhachev defends his championship this weekend at UFC311. How you feeling, champ? How's everything feel good?

[Islam Makhachev]

Drinking water, cutting weight. That's it.

[Andrea Waters King]

You smell that? That biscuit? You like that?

[Islam Makhachev]

Sunday I waiting one morning. Okay.

[Andrea Waters King]

Sunday morning before you leave, I promise.

[Islam Makhachev]

You have to be fresh.

[Andrea Waters King]

Fresh hot.

[Islam Makhachev]

Okay.

[Andrea Waters King]

Warm. You gonna eat this?

[Islam Makhachev]

Yeah.

[Andrea Waters King]

Okay. Las Vegas for training camp this time. How was that, man? I mean, I read. I read something the other day when you're talking to Demetrius Johnson. You had a baby and then left the next day for training camp.

[Islam Makhachev]

Third one.

[Andrea Waters King]

Third baby.

[Islam Makhachev]

How many you have?

[Andrea Waters King]

Three.

[Islam Makhachev]

Three.

[Andrea Waters King]

Are you done?

[Islam Makhachev]

No, I want seven.

[Andrea Waters King]

You want seven children?

[Islam Makhachev]

Yes.

[Andrea Waters King]

Why? Seven children, full wrestling team, seven weight.

[Islam Makhachev]

Class Olympics, some of the judo, sambo wrestling. Maybe someone do mma. Now I have two boys.

[Andrea Waters King]

Two boys. Nice.

[Islam Makhachev]

I have to be full, bro. Big family is good, man.

[Andrea Waters King]

Yeah.

[Islam Makhachev]

I built new house.

[Andrea Waters King]

You did already?

[Islam Makhachev]

A couple years ago.

[Andrea Waters King]

Yeah, it's beautiful.

[Islam Makhachev]

Beautiful.

[Andrea Waters King]

I saw Khabib's house. Beautiful house. Is your house like Khabib's house?

[Islam Makhachev]

My house like a residence, you know. It's so big.

[Andrea Waters King]

It's so big like yours like this.

[Islam Makhachev]

Mine not so big. I live with my grandmother, my father, mother. But it's big, but not crazy big.

[Andrea Waters King]

Yeah. I saw your father when you first won the belt. This guy was very happy, huh?

[Islam Makhachev]

Yeah.

[Andrea Waters King]

Very proud of you.

[Islam Makhachev]

This guy is village guy, you know. He's still doing his farm. Green farm here just called me today morning. I say tomato is ready, tomatoes are ready.

[Andrea Waters King]

He's excited about tomatoes. You're fighting for the world title this weekend. This dude's talking about tomatoes.

[Islam Makhachev]

He don't care too much about this old stuff.

[Andrea Waters King]

What you mean, man?

[Islam Makhachev]

He's not on sports, you know, he just hard worker all his life. He work with his.

[Andrea Waters King]

Your whole family. They watch the fights though. Mom, dad, kids. Mom can't watch.

[Islam Makhachev]

Mom never watch the fight.

[Andrea Waters King]

Why?

[Islam Makhachev]

Never again. Like after, if I win, he now will never watch.

[Andrea Waters King]

Even if you win, she doesn't go back and watch it.

[Islam Makhachev]

Never. Never.

[Andrea Waters King]

Why?

[Islam Makhachev]

I don't know. She don't like.

[Andrea Waters King]

So my mom used to go. And the whole time she was kind of like. Like this, you know, eyes down, scared.

[Islam Makhachev]

My mama go outside the house and she walk around the city.

[Andrea Waters King]

The guard yeah.

[Islam Makhachev]

Around where I live. And when I won, somebody, like, from the other house go like crazy, you know, and she understand then she understand.

[Andrea Waters King]

You when she go back inside now. Now she can, like, sit and be comfortable.

[Islam Makhachev]

She noticed too much.

[Andrea Waters King]

Yeah. So Las Vegas, though, training camp, how was that? We spoke at. I think we spoke at the last pay per view. You were a little concerned about Khabib losing his mind during training camp. Did he lose his mind? And how was the training camp?

[Islam Makhachev]

Why you don't come to control, brother?

[Andrea Waters King]

This crazy month.

[Islam Makhachev]

Gymnastics something.

[Andrea Waters King]

Not even gymnastics. No excuses. Just like, it's impossible. You go to Las Vegas.

[Islam Makhachev]

Why? Las Vegas is.

[Andrea Waters King]

It's very far.

[Islam Makhachev]

50 minutes by flight. From your house? Yeah, why not?

[Andrea Waters King]

But if I go to the fly, I never know if maybe they throw me out. They throw. This is the craziest situation.

[Islam Makhachev]

In emergency, you can help people, bro.

[Andrea Waters King]

Why they kick him out like this? Crazy. Why they do this to my guy?

[Islam Makhachev]

I don't know, brother.

[Andrea Waters King]

This number one disrespect, brother.

[Islam Makhachev]

I understand if you. If they kick you out from this emergency because you're so big, maybe don't do that.

[Andrea Waters King]

Don't be disrespectful. Don't be disrespectful. I can help because you need strength to pull the. The bar.

[Islam Makhachev]

Oh, you're a little bit big now. You not move too much?

[Andrea Waters King]

No. But all you got to do is pull the lever. That's it.

[Islam Makhachev]

But people have to go from this side.

[Andrea Waters King]

Yeah, but once I. Once I pull, I go.

[Islam Makhachev]

You go first.

[Andrea Waters King]

I go first. You go first or you go last.

[Islam Makhachev]

I go less, you win.

[Andrea Waters King]

I help everybody. Yeah, Khabib go last, too. So what happened is, like, these people for the front day, this airline company, Disrespectful. They took the worst guy. This guy's the best guy to be in there.

[Islam Makhachev]

What is this, man?

[Andrea Waters King]

It's crazy. But how was the camp?

[Islam Makhachev]

Camp? It's really hard, man.

[Andrea Waters King]

It was hard.

[Islam Makhachev]

And I like the training in Vegas. Ufcpi, like, all therapy, food, everything. It's good, you know, training there, brand new facilities, recovery training, training, like ufc, PI team. It's so good, you know? Thank you, everyone from ufcpi, they help us a lot. And we have everything what we need in last camp in Vegas.

[Andrea Waters King]

When you weigh your camps, your last couple camps in Dagestan to this one, like, is this something you're going to be doing more going forward, coming out to Las Vegas to do your camps?

[Islam Makhachev]

We're thinking where we can make the camp, you know, and Vegas or San Jose. And because this time, three guys cold. San Jose too, it's cold also gym is cold sometimes. And because we come like big team, like three guys fighting. That's why we sit with the Khabib is the coach and we choose the Vegas. Nice Vegas. Honestly, one of the.

[Andrea Waters King]

It's a great place for training, especially right now with the PI. It's a great place.

[Islam Makhachev]

Yeah. Apex, they have everything Islam.

[Andrea Waters King]

You're fighting Armand's Rukian again the first time, right? Even we did, right when you came back from fight, we all make fun. Like, oh, you lose a round, you do this, this. He said, brother, I won every round. Like, I won three rounds to zero. Yeah, but he fought you on short notice. Do you anticipate a much different fight this time than you got in the last fight?

[Islam Makhachev]

Man, maybe first time I'm a little bit underestimating because I don't know these guys. I signed him in ufc, even not in ufc.

[Andrea Waters King]

He wasn't signed before he fought you.

[Islam Makhachev]

They looking for opponent for me. That's why he signed there. Because no one from us or other country want to come to Russia and fight with me. That's why that time we signed him and he grew up more experienced now. Like, he's a big guy now. He's big experience and one of the best in our division.

[Andrea Waters King]

In that first fight, it seemed as though he was more willing to wrestle you offensively. Most people shy away from that. They just think defend Islam's takedowns, right? So then they're kind of on their heels the whole time because they're thinking shot, shot, shot, which ultimately leads to you being better with your hands. Do you anticipate he's going to be trying to wrestle you again in this fight?

[Islam Makhachev]

Because all his fight he have same style. If you look how many 9, 10 fight he have in UFC right now, it's. He have always same style with everybody. He go with the striking little bit. And when somebody try to push him, they go to take down. That's why. Because why he number one? Why am I the champion? Because he have good skills in the wrestling. Because I have good skills in the wrestling. Who have good skills in the wrestling. They control the division.

[Andrea Waters King]

You know, it is universally thought, you know what that means? Universal. Like everybody believes this, that this is the toughest fight to date for Islam. Makhachev, do you agree? The first one, this one this weekend is the toughest fight that you'll see.

[Islam Makhachev]

Nobody want no, you know, nobody know. Some of the fight is. For example, when I was Fighting with the tibao Glace and Tiba in my mind. I prepare like myself for the very hard fight, you know, but it was go easy, you know.

[Andrea Waters King]

And I remember that we fought together that night. You knocked him out. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Straight left. You get the bonus. You knock him out good. You get bonus.

[Islam Makhachev]

And you, what you did?

[Andrea Waters King]

Submission.

[Islam Makhachev]

Ambition. Not some ambition. You ground and pound.

[Andrea Waters King]

No submission. This was against Rumble, Johnson or Volcano. Like who's the mirror? Okay, yeah, ground and pound.

[Islam Makhachev]

Ground and pound. They don't give me bonus. They give you bonus?

[Andrea Waters King]

No. I thought you got the bonus.

[Islam Makhachev]

No, that night I don't get the bonus.

[Andrea Waters King]

I wonder why.

[Islam Makhachev]

Why you get the bonus?

[Andrea Waters King]

I don't know. You're a rich guy now. You don't need the bonus. Now.

[Islam Makhachev]

Now I don't need. But that time I need the bonus. You know, you have to come to my roommate. I'm not deserved, ma.

[Andrea Waters King]

And give you the 50 grand?

[Islam Makhachev]

Yes, brother, because.

[Andrea Waters King]

So you're telling me right now if you get a bonus over Umar, right, you. You'll take the 50 grand and go give it to Umar. So you would go give tag. He would not do that.

[Islam Makhachev]

Tagir wants some like crazy things.

[Andrea Waters King]

But you didn't do a crazy thing. You hit one punch.

[Islam Makhachev]

One punch. Knock him out sleep. What would you do more than this?

[Andrea Waters King]

If maybe you do like spinning back fist twice. Like this guy in. In Abu Dhabi. Okay, I give him the money. But if you only do one punch knockout and I do the same thing. We do the same thing.

[Islam Makhachev]

What you did punch. Just punch finish 100 pounds, you know, go easy.

[Andrea Waters King]

What did you. What did I hit him with my fist?

[Islam Makhachev]

Yes.

[Andrea Waters King]

What did you hit the guy with your fist?

[Islam Makhachev]

My arm.

[Andrea Waters King]

So it's the same thing, right? Like there's no reason to give you the 50 grand. You know what shoes this is?

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

I don't care.

[Islam Makhachev]

Montclair brother Moncler.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

No, next time do here someone some other like here.

[Andrea Waters King]

Watch, I show you. This is good shoe, man. Look, I promise.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Just look how his name like.

[Andrea Waters King]

It's a. It's a Converse. This is a great shoe, brother. Hey, look, come here. This one.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Why for me put like this?

[Andrea Waters King]

No, but you know what this word gangster, brother.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

I'm not gangster.

[Andrea Waters King]

No, but you know this original gangster.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Who's, who's, who's.

[Andrea Waters King]

Who's this like Dr. Dre, Eazy, E. Like this gangster. For me too.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

For me rappers, rappers, brother. For me there's not gangsters.

[Andrea Waters King]

I'm gangster.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

How me? How you gangster?

[Andrea Waters King]

Who you kill everybody Brother, how many times I kill you in the gym?

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Okay, Are you?

[Andrea Waters King]

How many times I kill you in the gym?

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Brother, gangsters, not people who fighting in the gym. So what are gangsters, but are they killing people?

[Andrea Waters King]

Who are the gangsters in the street?

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Of course.

[Andrea Waters King]

Come on.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Okay, Al Capone.

[Andrea Waters King]

Who is Al Capone?

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

He was gangster, right? You here.

[Andrea Waters King]

Like a gangster. No, this is not true. How many people you give in my life? I cannot say this, because I've been my. I go to jail by saying no. If I say I go to jail, tell this guy.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

If I. I think you even not kill fly brother, like this.

[Andrea Waters King]

This is you not.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Rather he's not gangster.

[Andrea Waters King]

You don't think so?

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Of course, brother.

[Andrea Waters King]

You've known me now all these years and you don't think I'm gangster?

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Brother, gangster.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Not sitting in front of camera and talking with fighters. Gangsters try to hide.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

So.

[Andrea Waters King]

So what happened was I used to hide. Now I'm trying to re like redo my image.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Rather even Ken. Ken Ulaskis, more gangster than you.

[Andrea Waters King]

Kane Velasquez, more gangster than me.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

So of course.

[Andrea Waters King]

Why?

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Because he acts like a gangster.

[Andrea Waters King]

I'm a man. Who is this guy you bring?

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

It's my training.

[Andrea Waters King]

This guy come out of nowhere. He's this guy. Talk, talk to him. This is a PR guy, this media guy.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Brother, let's talk about sport, gangster stuff. It's not your.

[Andrea Waters King]

You think you are. You sit like that and you think you're against.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

When I tell you sit like that. I'm confident. I want to tell sit like this because it's comfortable for me. When I said I'm gangster, Never.

[Andrea Waters King]

Okay, well, I am. You ain't gonna change my mind. I know what I am. I'm from the streets, okay?

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

I'm the president, usa. Nobody can say I'm not. You're never gonna change my mind. Like I'm the president.

[Andrea Waters King]

You know what's crazy? You have to respect me. And if I tell you something, you have to respect this, right, big brother?

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Always.

[Andrea Waters King]

You have to respect. So you have to. If I say I'm gangster, you gotta say, okay.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

No, we have to say about true. Okay? You have to. You can say like anything. Like, I'm from Mars. I have to say, this is from Mars.

[Andrea Waters King]

No, you have. No, you don't have to. You don't have to repeat. All you have to say is okay, brother. No, for respect.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Respect. It's like you one of the greatest fighter. It's respect. I say true. It's true. You are the you brother, former champion.

[Andrea Waters King]

Dude, it's sweeting.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

You want to be gangster.

[Andrea Waters King]

I get nervous when you talk about where's your guns. I have. Go ahead my house. We're not allowed to carry these here, brother.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

If you gangster, you have to put here, put here.

[Andrea Waters King]

Somebody give me a towel or something, man. Give me a white shirt over there.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

You have to watching around like who coming, you know?

[Andrea Waters King]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah. Okay. Thank you. All right, guys. Umar mega met off challenges for the UFC bantamweight championship this weekend. Finally you feel like. Finally Merab is saying you don't deserve yet though. But you feel like. Finally.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Okay, I have a question for you. Let's talk about facts.

[Andrea Waters King]

Facts.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Marlon Vera fought for the title after one win streak. He beats Pedro Munoz. Do you know who is Pedro Munoz?

[Andrea Waters King]

I do know who he is.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

He beat Pedro Munoz and fought for the title one. Then he not cry.

[Andrea Waters King]

But I think, but I think Merab should have fought for the title.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Then why he doesn't fight? Because Al Jim is. Sterling was his friend. Was champion, right? He was.

[Andrea Waters King]

No, no, no, no. You're confused. Cheeto Vera beat.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Yes.

[Andrea Waters King]

Against Sean O'Malley.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Exactly. I talk about. I forget. T.J. dior show fought for the title after one string very close fight with Corey Sandhagen. Yeah, he. He won that fight. After that, he fought for the title with Algermin Sterling. Right. But why he don't say C.J. dillo shall not deserve. Do you hear this?

[Andrea Waters King]

He didn't say that.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Oh, he don't say nothing. He was happy to for Aljamin Sterling because he fought for the title. Right? For that moment, he was good win streak. Maybe six, maybe eight. I don't know Exactly.

[Andrea Waters King]

Merab have like long win streak.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Yes. Why he done?

[Andrea Waters King]

Why he don't because his teammate.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

And why he cry now? If your teammate was champion? That's why you have two long win streaks. And you fought for the title. After that he lose, you take chance. Why everybody have to fight for the title after 10, Winston, why Alger? Mr. Nick fought for the title after five.

[Andrea Waters King]

Five. Yep.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Pieterian after six. TJ Duosho after one.

[Andrea Waters King]

Marlon Vero after one, and you after five, brother.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Six.

[Andrea Waters King]

Yeah, six.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

I deserve it. Not because of. Okay, six fight in the UFC, right? No tools. Even one round.

[Andrea Waters King]

What do you mean? That was one round.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Even one round. I'm not losing ufc not losing.

[Andrea Waters King]

You haven't lost a round, even one.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

I beat everybody. I beat everyone. Like every round. I, I, you know, I, I won.

[Andrea Waters King]

So this was expected. This was like, this was Expected like this title opportunity is expected.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

He just can't talk like he not deserve. He not deserve. But everybody know he won't fight with me because of he want to lose. Let's talk about. When you sit with Persona with someone like. And not have security. No one, just you and him. It's different.

[Andrea Waters King]

Yes, for sure.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Everybody can talk with the camera. With security to bad things. Like act like he's like enemy. He's like someone like gangster. Even like. Even like guy. If it's gonna be looking like gangster like, you know, my uncle teached me. He said to me one time, this.

[Andrea Waters King]

Guy Ali think he's a gangster?

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

No, he's the best manager. Brother.

[Andrea Waters King]

He is a great manager.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Brother, listen to me. Gangsters always hide. He can't walk, brother. Here brother. They have police looking for, right? Hey, let's talk about my interview, brother.

[Andrea Waters King]

Let's go. Please, please. Cuz this guy at least crazy. Go ahead, finish. Your uncle taught you touched?

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

He's touched me. Like he said to me, if someone have problem with you personal. He coming to your home, knock your door, tell you can you come? I have question for you. Why you do like that? When you and him alone, nobody will break, right? It's a gangster style, you know. But when there is a lot of security where they there, I'm gonna do something, you know? Two different situation. I was in Las Vegas one month, right? Five, six weeks. Like I was in.

[Andrea Waters King]

But I saw. I saw one time he was at the PI and he got locked out because you were in there.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Las Vegas finish in the PI.

[Andrea Waters King]

What?

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Okay. Las Vegas have place only in PI.

[Andrea Waters King]

No, I get it. But like he couldn't go inside because I think they were. I think they were working actively to keep you guys separated.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

They take care about. Not about me. They take care of him. When they tell him go home, don't come to K. Really rather you can. You think he can do something with me?

[Andrea Waters King]

I mean, you guys are gonna find out on Saturday night.

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

We're gonna see what's gonna happen.

[Andrea Waters King]

How do you know?

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

I talking about that if you have personal something.

[Andrea Waters King]

Oh, so like in. Like in public anywhere?

[Khabib Nurmagomedov]

Yes, yes. Come to me, right? Come to me. Tell me everything. What you want. Like personal, like. Like a man, right? Gangster style. But if you want to promote fight. Yeah, do like that.

[Andrea Waters King]

So the conference championships are upon us. And once again I'm partnered up with the DraftKings sportsbook to give all new customers a fantastic offer. Bet $5 or more and get $200 in bonus bets instantly when you sign up using my promo code dctv. Guys, only four teams are left, so why not get in on the action at the DraftKings sportsbook and show your friends that you're more knowledgeable while you're getting paid at the DraftKings sportsbook, where the crown is yours. Once again, guys, sign up using my promo code dctv. Bet $5 or more and get $200 in bonus bets instantly at the DraftKings Sports Club.

[T-Mobile Representative]

Let's go.

[Martin Luther King III]

Gambling problem call 1-800- gambler in New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text hopeny 467-369 in Connecticut. Help is available for problem gambling. Call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org Please play responsibly on behalf of Boot Hill Casino and resort in Kansas, 21 and over. Age and eligibility varies by jurisdiction. Void. In Ontario, bonus bets expire 160 additional terms and responsible gaming resources. See DKNG Co audio.

[T-Mobile Representative]

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[Bobby Bones]

Hey, it's Bobby Bones. Join me and former NFL quarterback Matt Castle every Wednesday for our new podcast, Lots to say. With Bobby Bones and Matt Castle between us, we have over 17,500 passing yards, multiple New York Times bestsellers, and one mirror ball trophy from Dancing with the Stars. So where else are you going to find a show with that much athleticism and football insight? Based in Nashville, we're more than just your basic NFL show. We talk sports, but we talk pop culture and music and a little bit everything. Because we got lots to say. I I texted you and you texted me back. Now I don't know if you have the update, but like all the little thumbs up and heart and stuff, like it's all colored. They changed it and the heart's a little pink. It felt like I told you I loved you. I'm going to be honest, it was a little pink.

[Andrea Waters King]

There was something sentimental when you, when you send it, it was like, do I send the heart now?

[Bobby Bones]

I don't like the color edition.

[Andrea Waters King]

It's extremely pink.

[Bobby Bones]

Listen to lots to say with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Andrea Waters King]

Consider this is a daily news podcast and lately the news is about a big question. How much can one guy change Day one change. What will change look like for energy? Drill baby, drill schools. Take the Department of Education. Close it. Healthcare better and less expensive. Follow coverage of a changing country. Promises made, promises kept. We're gonna keep our promises on consider this from NPR. Listen on the iHeartRadio app or wherever.

[Bobby Bones]

You get your podcasts.

[Andrea Waters King]

Everyone's forgotten who runs this valley.

[Islam Makhachev]

Time to remind them.

[Martin Luther King III]

Yellowstone fans, step into the Yellowstone universe.

[Andrea Waters King]

Our family legacy is this ranch and.

[Martin Luther King III]

I protect, I live my life. Hosted by Bobby Bones, the official Yellowstone podcast takes you deeper into the franchise that's captivated millions worldwide.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Action.

[Martin Luther King III]

Explore untold behind the scenes stories, exclusive cast interviews and in depth discussions about the themes and legacy of Yellowstone.

[Andrea Waters King]

You know, the first stuns to settle US Valley fighting was all they knew.

[Martin Luther King III]

Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the ranch, welcome to the Yellowstone. Bobby Bones has everything you need to stay connected to the Yellowstone phenomenon.

[Bobby Bones]

I look forward to it.

[Martin Luther King III]

Listen to the official Yellowstone podcast Now on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Andrea Waters King]

Let's go to work. Murab. Speaking of your last couple, your last fight, his last fight, one, were you, were you happy with the performance looking back on it against O'Malley and what did you take from that fight where Umar fought Corey Sandhagen and became the number one contender? When you were studying him, what did you see that you think that you guys can take advantage of.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Say one more time?

[Andrea Waters King]

Were you happy with your performance and what did you think of his last performance against Sanhagen?

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Yeah, I beat Shawn O'Malley. Shawn O'Malley was champion.

[Andrea Waters King]

Was that a hard fight?

[Merab Dvalishvili]

No, no hard fight. But he has a knockout power. He can knock out everybody. You know, Anybody you know, not everybody. If he landed you, he would knock you out. So that was risky fight for sure. But we have a great, great training camp and good plans and yeah, I beat him easy way and wasn't hard to watch Umar's fight. Yeah, he did, he did good against Corey Sanhegan and he beat number two guy and then, and then, you know, Umar is good fighter, well rounded. You know he can wrestling, can do grappling and you know he's a good striker also. And yeah, that was just one good fight against a ranked opponent.

[Andrea Waters King]

You just think that he should have fought more guys to get to the title fight.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Yes, yes. At least one more. Like he was supposed to fight Song Gi Dong and then. Yes, bro, just fight Song Gi Dong. Stay busy and don't pull out and just prove it like rest of us, you know, like we deserve it. And like, you know, that was my thing.

[Andrea Waters King]

How has your life changed since you became the champion?

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Life? Not much. I'm still same guy, I'm still living same house and I still have same people around me and. But of course I get so much respect, so much love, so much support as I'm a champion and you know, like now I am. How you say? I mean, the. You guys, what's they call you guys?

[Andrea Waters King]

Aljo.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

No, no, Aljo can be translated aljo.

[Andrea Waters King]

Translate this. He's in our what world? Rome. Rome maybe, Maybe Rome like Rome, like you are now champion with everybody else.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

So you're a great champion, but I'm a champion too, you know what I'm saying?

[Andrea Waters King]

So I'm in the room with you, same category. Yeah, yeah. You know, when I went to your house after the fight and you were running the next day, it tells me how much you live this life of a champion. What would it mean to you to beat a guy in Umar and Omega midloth that's undefeated? That is, you know, it's almost like, it's almost like he's the champion, right? The way people talk, it's almost like he's the champion. What would it mean to you to stop and shut all that up and keep your belt? Because ultimately it's always about keeping the belt. Right, right.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

You're right. You make good point with that. Yeah, exactly. I'm focused of win this fight and people will realize again, because people doubted me even before Shonomali's fight, even before Henry Shardu's fight, before Peter Yan's fight. And I mean, I was underdog many times, but all I have to, I want to just win for my friends, my team, and people will realize.

[Andrea Waters King]

Is he the underdog? Are you the underdog?

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Yeah. What is big under the.

[Andrea Waters King]

Minus 300.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Yeah, yeah.

[Andrea Waters King]

That's crazy.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Yeah.

[Andrea Waters King]

That service is motivational, right? Listen, I was an underdog fighting Anthony Johnson two times and it was really like motivating for me to train harder and be like, I'm gonna shut everybody up. I was the champion and I was the underdog.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Yeah, interesting. But no, it's not. This is, I don't pay attention this because there is so many people, they have own opinions and especially Umar's fans are acting crazy. I have to block so many people every day to like, because they. They just disrespect me, man.

[Andrea Waters King]

Yeah.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

And then, yeah, I'm just focused on myself.

[Martin Luther King III]

Yeah.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Underdog. Because I'm not focused of these people and this. Who makes ads and stuff like this.

[Andrea Waters King]

Because they don't fight. They don't go in the octagon and fight.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Only you can, you know, and then, you know, not. Yeah. So this is what matter is I have to show up. And I believe hard work. I was working hard. And I will. I believe hard work will pay off and I will be winner January 18th.

[Andrea Waters King]

What does the perfect fight look like, Merab? Like, you just taking him down over and over. Like, what is like, the perfect fight? Because I've seen you almost render guys helpless. Right. Like, you shot so many times on Purian that it looked like he was almost, like, watching the clock to see when the time would run out so he didn't have to defend takedowns anymore. Or would, like the perfect night end with you beating him into striking?

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Perfect night will be punch his face. Much as, like, a lot of punches in the face, damage in the head.

[Andrea Waters King]

Last one before I let you go. So I follow you on Instagram. I think you're, like, insanely. I think you're, like, insanely funny. I like when you were slapping that girl's ass. Hey. He said, hey, can I touch this?

[Merab Dvalishvili]

I asked permission.

[Andrea Waters King]

Why do you ask permission? She's twerking in front of you.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

That's me. I will ask if I get permission, then.

[Andrea Waters King]

Can I touch this? Bow, bow, bow. It was so funny, dude. But I saw you outside of the PI one time. Like, you got locked out. Like, you got locked out of the PI. They happened multiple times this training camp. Multiple times.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

That was first time when I posted, but it happened after this.

[Andrea Waters King]

What does the UFC said to you about this? Just, like, say to the PI, like, want to make sure y'all separated.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Security told me. Hey, I'm sorry, man. We love you, but Umar is inside. We can let you in. All right, bro. I have an injury. I have appointment.

[Andrea Waters King]

So they don't give you guys, like, appointment times in terms of, like, when you can go?

[Merab Dvalishvili]

He can usually how it is, you know, I. Training. Training. I. I finish training at some. At 1pm and right after training, I go to PI.

[Andrea Waters King]

Shower treatment.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Yeah, yeah. And then, yeah, if I want, like, what's it called? Recovery.

[Andrea Waters King]

Recovery.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Stuff like this. Yeah. And then. Or maybe nighttime training after. But now every time. Not every time, but a couple times. Umar was there and the security, I guess they was afraid to something like y'all might fight.

[Andrea Waters King]

Yeah, but you don't get paid to fight in PI.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Yeah, PI. Yeah, PI. Respect PI also a lot and. But I was at that time, I was really mad about Umar.

[Andrea Waters King]

So you were gonna fight at the PI. So the security made the right choice by not letting you in. So security actually did the right thing.

[Merab Dvalishvili]

Yeah, but I was still feel disrespectful. They don't let me in. It's okay.

[Andrea Waters King]

You're a man. Thank you for checking in with me. You are the best.

[Bobby Bones]

Hey, it's Bobby Bones. Join me and former NFL quarterback Matt Castle every Wednesday for our new podcast, Lots to say with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle. Between us, we have over 17,500 passing yards, multiple New York Times bestsellers, and one mirror ball trophy from Dancing with the Star. So where else you can find a show with that much athleticism and football insight? We talk sports, but we talk pop culture and music and a little bit everything. Listen to Lots to Say with Bobby Bones and Matt Castle on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcast, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Martin Luther King III]

Calling all Yellowstone fans, let's go to work. Join Bobby Bones on the official Yellowstone podcast for exclusive cast interviews, behind the scenes insights, and a deep dive into the themes that have made Yellowstone a cultural phenomenon.

[Andrea Waters King]

Our family legacy is this ranch I protect.

[Martin Luther King III]

I live my life. Listen to the official Yellowstone podcast Now on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Lexi Brown]

I'm so sick of hearing men talk about women's basketball. This is Lexi Brown and Mariah Rose, and we've got a new podcast, Full Circle. Every Wednesday, we're catching you up on what's going on in women's basketball. We've got you with analysis, inside stories, and a little bit of tea. Full circle is an iHeart women's sports production in partnership with Deep Blue Sports and Entertainment. Listen to Full circle on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Presented by Elf Beauty, founding partner of iHeart Women's Sports.

[Martin Luther King III]

Welcome to my Legacy. I'm Martin Luther King iii and together with my wife, Andrea Waters King, and our dear friends Mar and Craig Kilberger, we explore the personal journeys that shape extraordinary lives.

[Andrea Waters King]

Join us for heartfelt conversations with remarkable guests like David Oyelo, Mel Robbins, Martin Sheen, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, and Billy Porter.

[T-Mobile Representative]

Listen to My legacy on the iHeartRadio.

[Bobby Bones]

App, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Andrea Waters King]

This is my legacy.