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UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov is more than ready to help soccer star Patrice Evra get ready for his MMA debut as the former Manchester United player prepares to fight in the PFL on May 23.
After announcing plans to test himself in MMA, Evra reached out to Nurmagomedov for a conversation and he explained that fighting isn’t some novelty act that he’s doing for attention. Instead the 43-year-old former French National Team member promised he’s dedicating himself to get ready for this debut.
“I need to train,” Evra said during a conversation with Nurmagomedov. “I need to take it seriously. You know how much respect I have for you, for the sport so that’s why I really need to have a training session with you. Because I want to know from the best.”
A noted soccer fan for many years, Nurmagomedov promised to help Evra if he needed it, especially now that they’re both residing in Dubai while he’s getting ready for his debut fight.
“I told you many times, send me location and I’m going to find you,” Nurmagomedov said. “Send location, tell me where are you? When I see you, you have to be ready and that’s it. Other things, I’m going to take care of. I’m going to teach you how to smash people.”
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Khabib Nurmagomedov checks in with Patrice @Evra ahead of the former French football captain’s PFL MMA Debut on Friday 23rd May
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Of course, Nurmagomedov is regarded as one of the top coaches in all of MMA working with numerous champions including UFC lightweight king Islam Makhachev and PFL lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov.
Since retirement, Nurmagomedov has dedicated himself to coaching almost full-time and he’s well known for his intense training sessions as well as a devotion to getting the most out of his fighters. It appears he’s ready to add Evra to his roster whenever they can find time to work together.
“I just want you to improve yourself,” Nurmagomedov said. “Nothing else. [It’s] very good to see you and finally I hope you’re going to send me location and then we will train together.”
Evra is set to make his PFL debut at the upcoming card in France that takes place on May 23 from the Accor Arena in Paris.