Umar Nurmagomedov called out for being ‘afraid’ of streaking UFC bantamweight: ‘He’s running away’

A surging UFC bantamweight star claims Umar Nurmagomedov has been sidestepping him.

Nurmagomedov hasn’t exactly sealed another crack at the UFC Bantamweight Championship. His last five fights have all ended via decision. Nurmagomedov hasn’t scored a finish since early 2023. Finishers and fighters with exciting styles have been highly valued by the UFC brass as of late, and Nurmagomedov might need to find what’s missing before he can get another crack at the 135-pound gold.

Vinicius Oliveira isn’t convinced that Nurmagomedov will ever be able to entertain UFC fans. The streaking bantamweight star spoke to reporters during a UFC Vegas 113 media day session. Oliveira slammed Nurmagomedov for the lack of activity in his fights (h/t MMAJunkie).

“He’s a boring fighter,” Oliveira said. “He did everything he usually does. He’s good on the ground. He’s not a good striker, as well, but I think he’s in my line. I think one day we’re going to fight, but that fight he fought didn’t impress me.”

Oliveira then insisted the No. 2-ranked UFC bantamweight is avoiding him.

“I think that fight me against Umar will not happen because he’s afraid of me,” Oliveira said. “He’s running away from me like a demon runs away from the curse. So maybe one day I’m going to fight against Sean O’Malley.”

Oliveira is set for a big test against Mario Bautista in the main event of UFC Vegas 113 on Saturday. If Oliveira can score the slight upset, then he will emerge as a new bantamweight title contender.

“Lok Dog” has been riding a six-fight winning streak. He hasn’t suffered a loss since July 2022 at “UAE Warriors 30.” In his current streak, Oliveira has beaten the likes of Kyler Phillips, Said Nurmagomedov, and Ricky Simon.

Do you think Vinicius Oliveira will ever share the Octagon with Umar Nurmagomedov? Sound off in the comment section below.