Khabib Nurmagomedov is officially retired.
After Nurmagomedov submitted Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 to defend his lightweight title he announced his retirement from the sport at 29-0. “The Eagle” said he couldn’t fight again after his father passed away, despite his father wanting him to go 30-0.
Since he announced his retirement back in October, Dana White was adamant the Russian would return. However, on Thursday night, the UFC boss confirmed Nurmagomedov was indeed retired.
“29-0 it is. He is (100%) officially retired. It was incredible to watch you work @TeamKhabib thank you for EVERYTHING and enjoy whatever is next my friend.“
After White sent out the message, Khabib Nurmagomedob took to his own Instagram to release a lengthy statement. He thanks White and the UFC for giving him the chance and told the fans he hopes they understand his decision.
“It was a good dinner with some great people,” Khabib Nurmagomedov wrote on Instagram. “@danawhite thank you so much brother and the entire @ufc team for the opportunity to prove myself, you guys have changed many live forever because of this sport.”
“Dana – I’ll never forget your attitude towards me, my father did not forget and my sons will remember you. Today there was a real conversation between real men,” Nurmagomedov continued. “Also thank you to all team, sparing partners and all fans. I hope you will accept my decision and understand me.”
Khabib Nurmagomedov retires with a professional record of 29-0. His last three-fight stretch was easily his best as he submitted Gaethje, Dustin Poirier, and Conor McGregor. He also holds notable wins over Rafael dos Anjos, Edson Barboza, and Al Iaquinta among others.
After Nurmagomedov announced his retirement from the sport, the UFC quickly booked Charles Oliveira vs Michael Chandler for the vacant lightweight title in May.
What do you make of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s retirement message?
