Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has offered his unique training services to Manchester United legend Patrice Evra as the ex-footballer gears up for his MMA debut. Nurmagomedov used his famous “send me location” catchphrase during a conversation with Evra.
Evra, 43, recently signed a deal to fight for the PFL (Professional Fighters League) in Paris next month. He has been actively training in Dubai, a city where Nurmagomedov also resides and trains. The football icon has already trained with some significant figures in the combat sports world.
Having played football at the highest level for clubs like Manchester United, Juventus, West Ham, Monaco, and Marseille, Evra is now making the ambitious switch to mixed martial arts at the age of 43 after years of consistent training.
Evra Seeks Guidance from Khabib Nurmagomedov
Patrice Evra connected with the undefeated Dagestani via a video call while training in Dubai. Nurmagomedov, known to be a fan of Manchester United, initially seemed surprised by Evra`s decision to fight but quickly agreed to help him with his preparations.
During their call, Evra mentioned training twice daily. Khabib humorously responded, “Brother, you don’t need this why? If you need to fight I’m gonna fight for you.”
Evra laughed and explained his motivation: “I need to train bro, I need to take it seriously, you know how much respect I have for you, for the sport and that’s why I really need to have a training session with you. I really need to know from the best.”
Khabib then used his famous line, demanding Evra`s location to begin training. “Tell me where are you?” he asked. He added a warning and an offer: “Brother, when I see you, you have to be ready and that’s it. Other things we can take care of, I’m going to teach you how to smash people.”
Evra playfully remarked that despite Khabib`s affection for him, he also seemed to want to “kill and destroy” him during training. Khabib dismissed this, stating, “No no. I just want you to improve yourself, nothing else. It’s very good to see you brother, send me location and we will train.”
Evra`s Preparations Include Training with Top Fighters
To prepare for his cage debut, Evra has been training with elite MMA practitioners. He is currently working out at the Tripl3 MMA gym in Dubai and has already had sessions with fighters like PFL featherweight champion Brendan Loughnane.
Evra also trained with Cedric Doumbe in the past when he was considering a boxing match. Brendan Loughnane posted about training with Evra, welcoming him to the PFL community.
