Khabib Nurmagomedov to ‘coach’ Patrice Evra ahead of PFL Europe debut

UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov has offered to train former Manchester United and France footballer Patrice Evra, who is preparing to make his professional MMA debut in the Professional Fighters League (PFL) on 23 May.

Evra, 43, will compete on a PFL Europe card at the Accor Arena in Paris, making his debut in MMA.

In a recent conversation, the former French national team captain reached out to Nurmagomedov to seek guidance and emphasised his respect for the sport.

“I need to train. I need to take it seriously,” Evra told Nurmagomedov. “I really need to have a training session with you. Because I want to know from the best.”

Nurmagomedov, who has long been a fan of football and now resides in Dubai like Evra, responded with enthusiasm, saying he is ready to support the transition from pitch to cage.

“Send location,” the former UFC lightweight champion replied. “Tell me where you are. When I see you, you have to be ready, and that’s it. I’m going to teach you how to smash people.”

Since his retirement from fighting in 2020, Nurmagomedov has built a reputation as a top-tier MMA coach. His protégés include UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and PFL lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov.

Known for his demanding sessions and no-nonsense approach, Khabib appears eager to bring Evra under his wing.

“I just want you to improve yourself,” Nurmagomedov added. “Hopefully you’re going to send me location and then we will train together.”

Evra’s MMA debut has attracted global attention, with fans eager to see how the footballer fares in combat sports. His fight in May marks one of the most high-profile athlete crossovers in recent years.