Nurmagomedov thanked Velasquez and Mendes for their support

Usman Nurmagomedov, the Bellator lightweight champion, thanked his cornermen Cain Velasquez and Javier Mendez after the promotion's 300th event.

“Just look at me. I’m a guy from a village where I grew up just like others, and maybe worse, but I never imagined that this was possible. To my left is heavyweight legend Cain Velasquez, I played Sony Playstation as a kid and chose him because he blew everyone away, just like in life. To my right is coach Javier Mendez, who has more champions than anyone else in the sport. Now they are seconds in my fight for the defense of the lightweight title. You won't understand me. Thank you all for your support and congratulations, hugs to everyone.”