Koji Takeda: Khabib Nurmagomedov is arguably the biggest name in MMA right now. The former undisputed lightweight champion is an icon to fans and fighters all over the world. And the Japanese fighter Koji Takeda has also revealed his admiration for Khabib Nurmagomedov. For more combat sports news, follow Insidesport.IN.
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Takeda is a lightweight fighter who competes in the Rizin Fighting Federation. And the Japanese fighter was part of the unique Rizin FF vs Bellator event on New Year’s Eve. Takeda took on Russian Gadzhi Rabadanov in the first fight in the lightweight division.
Koji Takeda: Japanese Fighter Promises to ‘Comeback Stronger’ and the Reason Is Khabib Nurmagomedov. Here’s Why
Unfortunately for Takeda, he lost to Rabadanov. However, despite the loss, the 15-4 fighter took to Instagram to reassure his fans that he would come back. And Takeda credited Khabib Nurmagomedov for this.
After the bout, the legendary Russian went into the ring and raised Takeda’s hand, showing that he respected the Japanese’s performance. This act from Khabib meant a lot to Takeda. He even said the gesture from Khabib left him speechless. Therefore, while he may have lost, at least he got support from one of the best fighters the sport has ever seen.
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Khabib Nurmagomedov at the Rizin FF vs Bellator event
The Rizin FF vs Bellator event was one for the history books. This was one of the biggest cross-promotion events in MMA history. Something that fans of the sport have called for a while. And to witness it all, was one of the sport’s greatest in Khabib.
The former world champion was supporting team Bellator. And despite not coaching any of the fighters on the night, enjoyed a ringside experience of the event.
Khabib enjoyed the historic event and even took to social media to show his gratitude. ‘The Eagle’ posted a picture with Bellator president Scott Coker and even said Japan was the best. While many considered the crossover event to be a great success, the approval from Khabib Nurmagomedov will also mean a lot to the organizers.
What did you make of the Rizin FF vs Bellator event? Would you be interested in seeing a crossover event with the UFC?
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