Khabib Nurmagomedov is widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in the history of MMA, with many considering him the best lightweight ever. This article explores the career of the UFC legend and focuses on his retirement after more than a decade of competing in the sport.
Competing in the UFC’s lightweight division, Nurmagomedov became the longest-reigning champion, holding the title from April 2018 to March 2021. With an impressive undefeated record of 29-0, he retired from the sport and was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in June 2022.
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Career
Khabib Nurmagomedov, a two-time Combat Sambo World Champion, made his professional MMA debut in September 2008 against Vusal Bayramov at CSFU: Champions League. After amassing a 16-0 record in the Russian MMA circuit, Nurmagomedov signed a multi-fight deal with the UFC in 2011.
In January 2012, the Dagestani grappling expert made his UFC debut against Kamal Shalorus at UFC on FX 1, securing a third-round submission victory. He went on an impressive nine-fight winning streak before facing Al Iaquinta for the UFC lightweight title at UFC 223, where he won by unanimous decision. Nurmagomedov famously defended his title against Conor McGregor at UFC 229 in what became the UFC’s most high-profile main event. He continued his successful title defenses against Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje.
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Retirement
After defeating Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 in October 2020 with a second-round submission, Khabib Nurmagomedov announced his retirement in the post-fight octagon interview. He symbolically laid his gloves down in the center of the cage, marking the end of his remarkable career.
Nurmagomedov cited his promise to his mother as the reason for retiring. He had pledged not to continue fighting without his late father, legendary coach Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, who passed away in July 2020.
Legacy
Despite having only fought in the UFC 13 times, Khabib Nurmagomedov is unquestionably one of the greatest fighters to have stepped into the octagon. The Dagestani grappling maestro showcased dominant performances against notable fighters such as Rafael Dos Anjos, Edson Barboza, Al Iaquinta, Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje.
Throughout his career, Nurmagomedov became one of the biggest stars in the sport and headlined the UFC’s highest-selling pay-per-view event. He also set and broke multiple promotional records during his time in the UFC.
Conclusion
While some fans may argue that Khabib Nurmagomedov retired prematurely, his impact on the sport and his influence on the Dagestani fighting style is unparalleled. Although he has not returned to the cage, Nurmagomedov has ventured into launching his own MMA promotion, Eagle FC. He continues to coach and frequently appears as a cornerman for his fighters, including UFC stars like Islam Makhachev and Umar Nurmagomedov.
Watch Khabib Nurmagomedov’s last fight below:
