Khabib Nurmagomedov built one of the most impressive UFC runs between 2012 and 2020. Fans regard him among the greatest MMA fighters ever, despite a short prime. His early retirement limited longevity, but his dominance erased doubt. He controlled opponents with relentless pressure and suffocating grappling. Many legends lasted longer, yet few ruled with similar authority. His perfect record still fuels debate among fighters and analysts.
Some observers argue Nurmagomedov should have lost his second UFC fight. That argument never applied to his promotional debut. The Russian entered the Octagon in 2012 with little mainstream attention. He left that night with momentum and growing intrigue. His introduction lacked controversy about results, but officiating created unnecessary obstacles.
A difficult debut night in Nashville
Nurmagomedov fought in the United States for the first time at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. The event marked the UFC’s first broadcast on FX. Jim Miller and Melvin Guillard headlined the card in a lightweight clash. Nurmagomedov opened his UFC journey against Kamal Shalorus. Few fans knew his name, yet his confidence filled the cage.
Nurmagomedov never relied on polished striking during his career. He still found success on the feet in the opening round. His wild techniques looked awkward but landed with force. He dropped Shalorus and chased an early finish. The effort drained energy, yet Shalorus survived into round two.
Mario Yamasaki changes the fight’s rhythm
Shalorus entered the bout as a respected wrestler. He spent much of the second round stuck underneath Nurmagomedov. The Russian controlled positions and landed steady ground strikes. Referee Mario Yamasaki disrupted the action with repeated stand-ups. He forced Nurmagomedov to restart exchanges unnecessarily.
Those decisions frustrated the debutant and shifted momentum briefly. Nurmagomedov adapted and secured more takedowns. Shalorus failed to defend consistently against the pressure. In the third round, Nurmagomedov took the back and finished the fight. He sealed victory with a rear-naked choke and announced his arrival.
Nurmagomedov later said the UFC encouraged him to use a nickname. Commentator Jon Anik told viewers to learn his real name anyway. That advice soon proved prophetic as dominance followed.
Dana White draws a line after repeated controversies
Yamasaki’s stand-ups during Nurmagomedov’s debut barely rank among his most criticized calls. The referee sparked outrage across several events. Dana White criticized him publicly on many occasions. One fight finally ended their working relationship.
Yamasaki defended his actions during a brutal 2018 bout involving Valentina Shevchenko. He said he allowed Priscila Cachoeira to fight on as a warrior. White reacted strongly during a television appearance. He said the referee disgusted him and lacked judgment. White promised fans would never see Yamasaki referee again.
