Makhachev Rallies Around Nurmagomedov After Song KO

Umar Nurmagomedov's teammates and training partners rallied around the Dagestani bantamweight after he suffered the first knockout loss of his career Saturday night at UFC Shanghai.

Nurmagomedov entered as a heavy favourite against Yadong Song but was put to sleep by a second-round uppercut in front of a raucous Chinese crowd. The finish marked the first time the 20-2 fighter has been stopped in his professional career, per Sherdog.

Muhammad and Makhachev Post Messages of Support

Former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad, who trains closely with the Dagestani team, posted on X that he expects critics to pile on Nurmagomedov in defeat. "The thing I hate most about this result is knowing people will attack Umar and kick him while he's down," Muhammad wrote. "He's genuinely one of the quietest, humblest fighters you'll ever meet. Keep your head up, brother. This sport has the highest highs and the lowest lows. You'll be back."

UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev shared an Instagram post with Nurmagomedov, writing that he remains confident his teammate will handle the setback. "We are happy with what has been decreed for us," Makhachev posted. "Alhamdulillah. There are many challenges on the way to the goal, but I'm sure you can handle it, brother."

Song improved to 24-9-1 with the upset victory and earned a 100,000-dollar performance bonus for the finish.

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• Sherdog — Islam Makhachev, Belal Muhammad rally around Umar Nurmagomedov after brutal KO