When it comes to evaluating the true top talents in the UFC bantamweight division, few names generate as much admiration as Umar Nurmagomedov. And here’s a statement that might surprise some: even former champions and seasoned analysts consider him one of the very best, if not the outright best, in his weight class. But here's where it gets controversial... not many fighters receive such high praise from peers who are actively competing at the top.
Recently, Sean O'Malley, a prominent figure in the division known for his striking prowess and charismatic personality, shared his thoughts on Nurmagomedov’s skills during a discussion about the UFC 321 event held in Abu Dhabi last month. Nurmagomedov defeated Mario Bautista through a unanimous decision, showcasing his well-rounded abilities. O'Malley didn’t hold back in praising his opponent’s technical mastery—highlighting Nurmagomedov’s striking, grappling, and the strength of his team.
On his YouTube channel, O'Malley expressed his admiration: “Umar is so incredible. His skill set is off the charts. He’s a dangerous striker, a formidable grappler, and he's backed by a top-tier team. Honestly, when you compare skills across the division, I feel like he’s one of the best, if not the very best.”
Both O'Malley and Nurmagomedov are among the few elite fighters in the bantamweight division who have yet to face each other in the octagon. Interestingly, O'Malley previously turned down the opportunity to challenge Nurmagomedov when he was chasing a title shot. O'Malley’s career has been marked by notable wins—defeating Aljamain Sterling, defending his title against Marlon Vera, and then suffering a setback against Merab Dvalishvili. His last fight was a loss to Dvalishvili this past June, after which he has remained on the sidelines.
Nurmagomedov, meanwhile, has been climbing the ranks with a solid record (19-1) and recently rebounded from his only career loss against Dvalishvili by defeating Bautista. Dvalishvili, who has a record of 21-4, also defended his title against Nurmagomedov earlier in his title run, which adds an interesting layer to the rivalry and potential future matchups.
And this is the part most people might miss—Nurmagomedov’s recent victory not only demonstrated his skill but also suggested he’s a serious contender, capable of shaking up the division. So, what do you think? Is Nurmagomedov truly the division’s top talent, or is there someone else who deserves that crown? Share your thoughts below—this division’s future might just depend on it.
