Lex Fridman Podcast · Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Khabib Nurmagomedov described the legendary, Spartan conditions of his early training gym in Makhachkala, Dagestan, which featured only one shower for 70 people and cold water. Despite these harsh conditions, the gym produced over 20 world champions, including several UFC champions.
“So, that gym back in Dagestan where you trained, is legendary for its Spartan conditions. There was just one shower for 70 people. Only cold water.”
“And yet, this humble little gym managed to raise more than 20 world champions, including several UFC champions.”
“It was just a school gym with nothing but mats, a single punching bag, one climbing rope, and a kind of indoor basketball court.”