Dana White Says Promoter Khabib Nurmagomedov Is ‘Going To Learn The Hard Way’

Khabib Nurmagomedov is diving into a new career.

Nurmagomedov will soon launch his Eagle FC promotion in the United States for the first time in 2022. Eagle FC 44, which takes place on January 28 in Miami, features MMA legends like Tyrone Spong, Sergei Kharitonov, and Rashad Evans.

The lineup and the practicalities of running the premiere are still being worked out.

White told reporters at a UFC Fight Night 199 post-fight press conference that he hasn’t spoken to former champion Nurmagomedov about the business side of the fight game, but warning that it’s not as simple as it appears.

“I haven’t talked to Khabib about his promotion at all,” White said.

“He’s going to find out what it’s like to be on the other side. It’s not as fun as it seems. He’s going to learn. If he doesn’t know, he’s going to know.”

“If he calls me and wants advice, I would give him advice,” White said. “But I think he’s going to learn the hard way.”