Hasbulla Magomedov: The Living Meme Explained

Hasbulla Magomedov AKA “Mini Khabib” is a 21-year-old social media sensation from the Republic of Dagestan in Russia who is beloved by many and only truly understood by very few.

With 8.7 million followers on Instagram and approximately 12 billion views on TikTok (based on content reposted with #hasbulla), this pint-sized social media tour de force has steadily become a household name in just about any corner of Earth with internet access — a development that’s simultaneously confounding and unsurprising.

At this point, you probably have an entire litany of additional questions in dire need of answering. Here’s everything we know about the uncrowned king of Dagestan.

RELATED: We Took Hasbulla Go-Karting In Sydney

Hasbulla Magomedov Overview

Who is Hasbulla Magomedov?

Hasbulla Magomedov is a social media star from the Republic of Dagestan (Russia) who began posting content on Instagram in late 2020.

Fast forward to the present day and Hasbulla is now the subject of countless viral videos across both the ‘gram and TikTok with around 10 million social media followers across both platforms.

As some of you may know, Dagestan is also the motherland/primary residence of retired, undefeated mixed martial artist and former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. Hasbulla was quickly nicknamed “Mini Khabib” due to: a) famously re-enacting Khabib’s UFC 229 weigh-in, b) the since-debunked rumour he’s the actual son of Khabib, and c) his real-life relationship with Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Hasbulla and the combat sports legend are apparently “good friends.” The same can be said about Hasbi and current UFC lightweight champ Islam Makhachev, who the former actually cornered alongside Khabib at UFC 280. All three are practising Muslims.

Why is Hasbulla famous?

The exact genesis of Hasbulla’s fame could be debated by scholars from now until the end of time.

Whether it’s his association with the Ultimate Fighting Championship, countrymen Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev, or the fact he could be Vladimir Putin’s 4D chess move to infiltrate Western culture, there’s one thing the ongoing discourse can agree upon…

His social media stardom skyrocketed considerably when he called out Abdu Rozik — AKA “The Borgir Kid” — and staged a pre-fight press conference, projecting them both into mainstream recognition. Much of the novelty involved the fact Abdu has a similar genetic condition to Hasbulla (more on this later).

Similar to the epic clash-that-never-was between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Tony Ferguson, however, the MMA fight between Hasbulla and Abdu Rozik was destined to fall apart — a combination of logistical issues and the Association of Little People of Russia condemning the bout as “unethical.”

Regardless, Hasbulla’s profile would only rise from that point onward. Even the oft-controversial podcaster Joe Rogan namechecked him (which is the true mark of fame these days):

“Mini Khabib. Whoever’s handling him is doing a f**king phenomenal job. Because he’s like 18, right? He’s everywhere.”

RELATED: Hasbulla Will Be Cornering Islam Makhachev At UFC 280

Deciphering Hasbulla

Like Teddy Roosevelt and Jack Nicholson, Hasbulla Magomedov ranks among a certain calibre of historic figures, all of whom are defined by a life worth living. Similar to the 26th President of the United States, Hasbulla has overcome physical hardship with nothing but sheer determination and a couple of fightin’ fists. And similar to the iconic Hollywood actor, Hasbulla f**ks.

While his stature may be less than ideal, he more than makes up for it by representing masculinity at its very finest; perfect masculinity personified, if you will. A meticulously balanced duality whom every single male should model themselves after, in both the philosophical and literal sense.

One half encompasses a carefree and almost impossibly whimsical approach to the world, compassion for his fellow man, endless affection towards nature — particularly cats and birds — a high-pitched laugh that was the secret chord Leonard Cohen wrote about all those years ago (you know, the one that David played and it pleased the Lord). Hell, the lad still makes time for his family and the odd moment of prayer.

The other half encompasses relentless ambition, an appetite for fast cars, financial success, and good life in general; an assuredness in who he is, a desire to improve the self, plus that famed willingness to roll up his tiny sleeves and trade blows against anyone who has wronged him. Because sometimes, you gotta let a motherf**ker know what time it is.

Hasbulla Magomedov is all this and so much more. A meme to aspire to… the saviour who was promised… Fredrich Nietzsche’s dream of an Übermensch realised in a metre-tall package.

Our evening with Hasbulla

August 29th, 2022. 8:35 PM.

I’m perched on the top step of a mock race podium within Moore Park’s Hyper Karting, phone anxiously gripped in one hand, awaiting the promised arrival message, paper bag full of cat toys in the other. As an entire media crew armed with heavy-duty film cameras and DSLRs scramble into position, I feel an enthusiastic hand clasp my shoulder before the following words hit me like a ton of bricks: “Our scouts just clocked his McLaren 720S, he’s 40 seconds out… ready to take Hasbulla go-karting?”

How the f**k did I get here?

By now, there’s a good chance you’ve glimpsed the viral footage of young Hasbi having the absolute time of his life go-karting right here in Sydney. Something Team BH will happily take some of the credit for making happen. But this was by no means due to happenstance, nor was it exactly the straightforward endeavour that many assumed it would be. The journey to get the modern icon piloting an electric race rig actually began months ago.

July 29th, 2022. 12:40 PM.

After South Melbourne-based operation, The Hour Group, confirmed Hasbulla was boarding a flight bound for Australia, we (re)published an article that went gangbusters. Again. To absolutely nobody’s surprise, mind you. So, like the enterprising hustlers we are with zero qualms about sliding into the DMs, an offer was extended, completely free of any/all logistical considerations…

A few hours passed.

I’d already resigned to my fate of being seen-zoned.

I kicked myself for double-messaging with an additional GIF (why the hell did I have to send the bloody GIF?!).

That’s when something miraculous happened…

A breakfast meeting was set. By the time every last slice of toast had been buttered, a partnership was established, and we’d effectively secured some face-to-face time with Mini Khabib himself. Track fun and a sit-down interview. Outrageous scenes. This was, however, just the first hurdle.

Given Hasbulla’s well-documented physical limitations — height: 1.01 metres | weight: 16 kilograms… essentially the physique of an actual toddler — and the breakneck speeds each Hyper Karting race rig is capable of, there was a certain measure of risk. For reference, a minimum height of 1.4 metres is ordinarily required to drift on the Main Track. Hence why in the lead-up to his hotly anticipated arrival, an extensive two-day customisation process accomplished in HK’s on-site mechanic workshop was necessary.

“I was cheering when I heard he was coming to Hyper Karting,” said Nasser Rana, the very individual responsible for making the kart Hasbulla-friendly.

“So I got to work modifying a chassis for him with custom-built pedal actuation, steering column overhaul, and a bespoke seat setup… he had the full experience.”

Hyper Karting Founder Andrew Richardson added: “I knew we needed to make our venue fit for the king.”

“We’ve been hard at work creating the world’s best go-karting experience but knew we’d need to push the boundaries even further.”

From around the corner where the track facilities connect with the Entertainment Quarter’s regular parking complex, an unmistakable silhouette loomed large. As Hasbulla entered, ensconced by an entourage with a realistic headcount of 30 — although within the context of the occasion, felt like a moving circus of 300 — I motion forward to introduce myself, taking note of the fact I’d never encountered a Rolex Datejust w/ Roman dial in that size before.

“As-salamu alaykum, brother,” I say before shaking his tiny hand and presenting the gift pack for his beloved Scottish fold cat Barsik (translation: “Little Leopard”).

“For Barsik… Barsik… Barsik.”

He nods and palms it off to one of his handlers, which was probably the last anyone ever saw said gift pack. Ouch.

I lead him to an ornamental go-kart custom wrapped with a Hasbulla NFT print and “King Hasbulla #1.” He’s amused, although not amused enough for an on-camera conversation.

But after all the meet-and-greet events, every single goddamn camera in Sydney being shoved in your face, and the legions of eager fans chasing you for the novelty — who could blame him? The most patient of monks would have been exhausted. And this was never going to be my Frost/Nixon moment. Besides, at the risk of playing into stereotypes, his entourage didn’t exactly seem like the negotiating type.

The moment we had both strapped in and decided to hit full send, all those silly notions about organising the chaos of life seemed to dissipate, and any question I’d engineered for the most headline-worthy answers was already a distant memory. This, I decided, was well and truly livin’.

Then there was a spirited session of ping pong. Which the larger-than-life figure himself played as full-court tennis.

How old is Hasbulla Magomedov?

As of 2023, Hasbulla is 21 years old.

While his exact date of birth is unknown, several publications have run with the unverified claim this it falls on July 7th, 2002.

What is Hasbulla’s condition?

Hasbulla was born with Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) — otherwise known as dwarfism — which is why the general population initially assumed he was a lot younger than his real age.

How tall is Hasbulla Magomedov?

Due to his Growth Hormone Deficiency/dwarfism, Hasbulla is only about a metre tall — or 3 feet and 4 inches.

Sources indicate Hasbulla’s medical condition has also resulted in a total weight of approximately 16 kilos or 2.5 stone.

Dwarfism in adults is defined as a height of 4 feet 10 inches (147 cm) or less, with the average height among such adults around the airspace of 4 feet (122 cm).

RELATED: It Finally Happened, Hasbulla Sat Down For His First Proper Interview

Where is Hasbulla from?

Hasbulla is from Makhachkala in the Republic of Dagestan — a republic of Russia situated in the North Caucasus of Eastern Europe, along the Caspian Sea.

Dagestan covers an area of 50,300 square kilometres (19,400 square miles) with a population of over 3.1 million, consisting of over 30 ethnic groups and 81 nationalities. 

With 14 official languages and 12 ethnic groups each constituting more than 1% of its total population, the republic is one of Russia’s most linguistically and ethnically diverse, and one of the most heterogeneous administrative divisions in the world.

Most of the residents speak one of the Northeast Caucasian, or Turkic, languages. However, Russian is the primary language and the lingua franca within the republic.

Hasbulla’s Net Worth

While it isn’t publicly disclosed information, Hasbulla Magomedov’s net worth is estimated to be $2 million.

Perhaps one day he’ll actually take on the world of mixed martial arts by accepting the Abdu Rozik fight, responding to Kyrgyzstani UFC lightweight contender Rafael Fiziev’s audacious challenge, or making good on his promise to “punish Conor McGregor” because he “talks too much.” At which point it’s red panty night with major pay-per-view dollars.

Make it happen, Dana White. Get the Russian Dwarf Athletic Association on the phone pronto. Or any sports association willing to make it happen. This is the show fight we’ve been waiting for.

Hasbulla UFC Contract

According to MMA journalist Igor Lazorin, Dagestani social media sensation Hasbulla Magomedov has signed a five-year contract with the UFC. Just not the kind you expected.

“This is a blast from the face! Hasbulla signed a five-year contract with the UFC!” Lazorin revealed in his most recent Instagram post.

“So far in the plan — attending tournaments, media activity. We will not talk too much in detail, but he’s getting more than most fighters.”

This isn’t terribly surprising considering how Mini Khabib has long been a fixture of modern MMA culture.

As some of you may recall, Hasbulla entered the Octagon alongside full-sized Khabib when their compatriot Islam Makhachev submitted New Zealand’s Dan Hooker at UFC 267.

At the very same event, which was hosted in Abu Dhabi on October 2021, Hasbulla sat cage-side to witness Petr Yan defeat Cory Sandhagen and Glover Teixeira win the light heavyweight strap from Jan Blachowicz.

More recently, he returned to corner Islam Makhachev at UFC 280, wherein the latter claimed the vacant lightweight title and belt from Charlies Oliveira in Abu Dhabi.

Then there’s the matter of his tongue-in-cheek beef with the UFC’s #7 lightweight Rafael Fiziev, as well as his not-so-tongue-in-cheek beef with former two-division champion and Irish UFC star Conor McGregor.

Beyond all this, it’s no secret Hasbulla has what Tony Ferguson hilariously dubbed “Dana White Privilege.” Like many of us, UFC President Dana White is quite fond of young Hasbi.

“So I’m going to tell you something. So the video that he sent saying: ‘Dana White I’m coming to Abu Dhabi and UFC,’” Dana White revealed during an interview with Barstool Sports conducted by Robbie Fox ahead of UFC 268: Kamaru Usman vs Colby Covington II. 

“When I posted that with me on the plane saying, ‘I’m coming,’ it’s the biggest post that I’ve ever posted. I have [8.6 million] followers on Instagram. 6.4 million people watched that video. Is that f**king crazy?!”

When prompted about the possibility of an actual UFC fight event headlined by a gloved Hasbulla, potentially against his arch-nemesis Abdu Rozik, White simply replied:

“I love the kid. Is there more than a zero percent chance? Yes.”

Read more here.

UPDATE [27/10/22]: Hasbulla has claimed he will in fact fight in the UFC.

Posting a picture of himself holding personalised merchandise, Mini Khabib tweeted:

“The rumours are true. I have officially signed a deal to fight in the UFC! Details will be revealed by the end of the year. Thank you to my team for making this dream a reality.”

Once again, the UFC has yet to make an official announcement on this specific matter.

RELATED: Conor McGregor Goes On A Spicy Deleted Rant About Hasbulla

Hasbulla & The NFT Hustle

Like many public personalities with a substantial social media following, Hasbulla Magomedov leveraged his newfound fame to capitalise on the NFT trend.

The first set of Hasbulla-related tokens was released on April 14th 2022, with each NFT depicting the internet star as a different figure in pop culture. And there’s even a dedicated Crypto Hasbulla Instagram account featuring links to his entire NFT collection.

Anyone interested in owning their very own Hasbulla NFT can make a purchase using Ethereum on the OpenSea platform.

Can Hasbulla drive a car by himself?

Contrary to what the internet will have you believe, while he’s been papped in luxury vehicles ranging from McLarens and Rolls-Royces to the odd BMW, due to his stunted growth, Hasbulla Magomedov cannot properly drive a vehicle by himself. At least not safely. Keep in mind neither donuts in an empty lot nor sitting on someone else’s lap count in our books.

In fact, based on our first-hand experience with the great man during last year’s tour of Australia, Hasbulla can’t even pilot a recreational go-kart independently without extensive modifications: maximum seating inserts, maximum pedal inserts, adjusted steering column… the works.

Still, that hasn’t precluded him from car ownership. Back in February 2023, for example, Hasbulla attempted to sell a car he actually owned on Instagram: a 2000 model BMW E38 7 Series.

Priced at punchier-than-expected ₽850,000 ($17,200), aside from the bragging rights, the new owner essentially paid for the following specs…

Hasbulla’s BMW

• Model: BMW E38 7 Series 728iLA
• Year: 2000
• Paint: Anthracite Metallic
• Engine: 5.6-litre naturally-aspirated M73 V12
• Transmission: 5-speed automatic
• Maximum Power Output: 190 HP / 193 PS / 142 kW @ 5300 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 206 lb-ft / 280 Nm @ 3950 rpm
• Acceleration: 0-100 km/h or 0-62 mph in 9.6 seconds
• Top Speed: 225 km/h or 140 mph
• Curb Weight: 1,750 kilograms
• Additional Notes: “Bulletproof,” according to Hasbulla himself (apparently)

For a better look at the goods, you can check out Hasbulla Magomedov’s 2000 BMW E38 7 Series 728iLA via its standalone Instagram page @p077oco05 here.

Why was Hasbulla arrested?

It was only a matter of time before the authorities apprehended the three-foot don himself. And on May 9th of 2023, Hasbulla Magomedov was arrested in Dagestan.

Precisely how did he incur the full wrath of the law? As per MVD Dagestan (via Red Corner MMA):

“Police in Dagestan arrested him and some of his friends for violating traffic laws. According to Dagestan’s Internal Affairs, Hasbulla and others drove out into the street and were interfering with other drivers. The entourage was arrested and charged with administrative violations. As Hasbulla and his crew claimed, ‘They were celebrating a friend’s wedding.’”

Footage of Hasbulla and his entourage celebrating on the roads of Dagestan – an incident that led to their arrest

🎥 MVD Dagestan pic.twitter.com/yEhq69Q6VF

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) May 8, 2023

As you’ll see in the footage provided above, there’s no denying Hasbulla & Co were indeed guilty of hooning on an open road — doughnuts in broad daylight and all — with the high-octane fun eventually coming to an abrupt halt after what appears to be a rather nasty scrape/collision.

Nor can we honestly say this is uncharacteristic behaviour given young Hasbi, who has a well-documented love affair for speeding on four wheels (sometimes two).

“We decided to hype a little bit. That won’t happen again, people we apologise. We had to answer for it a little bit. I wasn’t driving either.”

Hasbulla Magomedov’s Instagram apology (via The Sun)

Currently, it’s unclear whether this hiccup will impact his ongoing five-year contract with the UFC or his standing with President Dana White. But let’s be real here: Hasbulla is hardly the promotion’s first employee to be arrested in a public fashion. Just count our blessings it was for something so comparatively tame (although no less obnoxious).

UPDATE [11/05/2023]: Hasbulla has since revealed he’s “bailed out on house arrest” on Twitter, which was tweeted alongside a picture of himself with an electronic ankle tracker photoshopped on his right leg (see: above).

Dagestani authorities released a statement of their own via Telegram:

Unbridled wedding fun in Dagestan is known to many and far beyond the borders of the republic.

In the absence of other ways of entertainment, such a primitive option is still extremely popular — blocking roads for other road users, burning rubber, smashing cars against each other and many other features that, in fact, have nothing to do with the celebration.

All participants of ‘wedding emotions’, as they themselves call it, were taken to the police, and in relation to them, employees of the State Traffic Inspectorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Dagestan drew up administrative protocols for all violations.

Hasbulla Interview: One-On-One With Barstool Sport’s Caleb Pressley

History is defined by its most notable conversations.

Richard Nixon and David Frost. Diana, Princess of Wales and Martin Bashir.

But what of the 2020s? And, indeed, whom? The answer is Dagestani icon Hasbulla Magomedov and Barstool Sports’ roaming finger-on-the-pulse, Caleb Pressley.

Filmed on location in Dubai, the GOAT-ed Sundae Conversation segment revealed some key insights about the man/myth/legend:

• On his love of cars
  “I like tuning them up. I like drifting. I like the noise they make.”
• On protecting himself in these streets
  “When I carry the blade, people keep their mouth shut. Now I have my brothers with me… better than a knife.”
• On hitting the gym
  “I don’t pump iron, I am iron.”
• On his greatest weakness
  “When people try to insult me, I’m quick to clap back and then it’s beef.”
• On his political ambitions
  “I want to become Minister of Internal Affairs for Dagestan… First I’ll find my haters and make them panic. I’ll slow down the speed limit within the city, but increase it on the highway. All the speed cameras are coming down.”

As seasoned spectators of the fiery 21-year-old sensation will tell you, what Mini Khabib lacks in growth hormones, he more than makes up for with his trigger-switch rage. This is why halfway through the otherwise scholarly affair, a classic case of lost in translation led Hasbulla to hit the metaphorical pause, before literally hitting the talented Mr Pressley with everything he had loaded in those tiny fists.

Suffice it to say, he’s already well-primed to become an MMA fighter. Australia’s featherweight champ and pound-for-pound king, Alexander Volkanovski, won’t have to defend Hasbulla from the likes of Conor McGregor any longer.

More News On Hasbulla

• Hasbulla Now Has His Own Trading Card
• Hasbulla Signs 5-Year UFC Contract
• Hasbulla To Face Islam Makhachev At UFC 280
• We Took Hasbulla Go-Karting In Sydney

Hasbulla FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)