Umar Nurmagomedov’s team expected far greater resistance on Saturday night. The Dagestani contender cruised through UFC 324 and barely showed signs of effort. He continued his march toward another bantamweight title opportunity with a calm and controlled performance.
Nurmagomedov extended his rebound after losing to Merab Dvalishvili in January 2025. He already stopped Mario Bautista’s rise in Abu Dhabi last October. At UFC 324, he again shut the door on a dangerous challenger.
Deiveson Figueiredo fails to trouble Nurmagomedov
On January 24, Deiveson Figueiredo failed to solve Nurmagomedov’s puzzle. The Brazilian never found rhythm or momentum inside the Octagon. He struggled to apply pressure or force meaningful exchanges.
Figueiredo entered the fight as the No. 2 contender’s latest test. He could not produce a credible threat at any stage. Nurmagomedov controlled distance, pace, and positioning from start to finish.
Khabib Nurmagomedov mocks ease of victory cageside
Khabib Nurmagomedov reacted immediately after the fight ended. He spoke while leaving the arena alongside his cousin. The former lightweight champion highlighted how effortless the contest appeared.
Khabib said Umar looked like he finished a light training session. He joked that sparring sessions demanded more effort. His comments underlined the gap between the fighters on the night.
Umar echoed that assessment during his post-fight press conference. He questioned his opponent’s lack of engagement. He said he expected more exchanges and more ambition.
Weight miss and setbacks deepen Figueiredo frustration
Figueiredo entered UFC 324 under scrutiny after missing weight. He then delivered a flat performance on fight night. The combination worsened his position in the bantamweight title race.
The former two-time flyweight champion moved up in 2023 seeking another belt. He still has not reached a title opportunity at 135 pounds. Recent disappointments have pushed him further from contention.
Khabib outlines calm approach to Umar’s future
Khabib later congratulated Umar through a social media post. He praised his cousin’s activity and composure. Umar fought twice in three months and stayed dominant.
Umar does not expect an immediate title shot after this win. That reality does not concern his team. Khabib said they will accept any opponent the promotion offers.
He said they stand ready to return in May or June. He stressed that the journey matters more than immediate gold. The message reflected confidence rather than urgency.
