Many notable figures in the MMA community have reacted to Umar Nurmagomedov’s KO loss at UFC Shanghai to Song Yadong.

This weekend, Umar locked horns with Song in the main event of UFC Shanghai, in hopes of earning a second bantamweight title shot by extending his win streak to 3. However, his big plans were ruined after the Chinese fighter, in front of his home crowd, scored a highlight-reel finish by knocking out the Russian fighter cold in Round 2.

SHANGHAI, CHINA – AUGUST 29: (L-R) Song Yadong of China punches Umar Nurmagomedov of Russia in a bantamweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at SPD Bank Oriental Sports Center on August 29, 2026 in Shanghai, China. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

As Umar dipped his head to the left, Song closed the distance and landed a powerful uppercut to the side of Umar’s head, knocking him out cold. Yadong followed up with three more shots on an already unconscious Umar before the referee stepped in to stop the fight and save the 30-year-old from further punishment.

MMA world reacts to Umar Nurmagomedov’s Brutal KO Loss at UFC Shanghai

UFC two-division champion and P4P king Islam Makhachev shared a post on Instagram with a motivational message for his teammate and longtime friend Umar Nurmagomedov after the UFC Shanghai setback.

“We are satisfied with what is prescribed to us #alhamdulillah. There are many trials on the way to the goal, but I’m sure you’ll make it, brother.” [Translated]

Meanwhile, Ali Abdelaziz, with similar sentiments, added:

“Alhamdulillah in victory and in defeat. Allah knows what is best for us, even when we don’t understand His plan. You worked hard, you gave your best, and nothing done sincerely for Allah is ever wasted. Keep your head high and have sabr.”

Umar’s arch-rival, former UFC bantamweight titleholder Merab Dvalishvili, also reacted to the loss with an emoji:

Meanwhile, Dillon Danis quipped:

“go to sleep b*tch 💤 🖕🐀”

“Send him 2-3 years China and forget 😂”

Check out Jon Jones‘ reaction below:

Belal Muhammad added on X after Umar Nurmagomedov’s KO loss:

“The thing I hate most about this result is knowing people will attack Umar and kick him while he’s down. He’s genuinely one of the quietest, humblest fighters you’ll ever meet. Keep your head up, brother. This sport has the highest highs and the lowest lows. You’ll be back.”

Check out a few more reactions below:

Subham

Subham is a writer and editor with experience spanning MMA, Health & Fitness, true crime, and pop culture. He has previously worked with Sportskeeda MMA, SK True Crime, and SK Pop, Movies, and Shows.
He currently covers the UFC for LowKickMMA and MMA Pros Picks.