Three years after retirement, Khabib Nurmagomedov assures fans they're "never going to miss" him in MMA
Khabib Nurmagomedov recently reassured his fans that they will never feel his void in the world of MMA. 'The Eagle' surprised the combat sports community with his unexpected retirement from active competition after securing a submission victory over Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 in October 2020.
UFC CEO Dana White made numerous attempts to persuade Nurmagomedov to reconsider his retirement, and on multiple occasions, there was widespread speculation about a potential comeback. However, the UFC Hall of Famer remained resolute in his decision.
During a recent interview with iNews, Nurmagomedov was asked if there was any possibility of him returning to the cage. 'The Eagle' firmly stated that there isn't the slightest chance of him coming out of retirement. However, he emphasized to fans that they won’t miss his presence, as he has already groomed a new generation of fighters to carry on his legacy:
"If you guys need champions, I’m helping my brothers to become champions… We have Islam [Makhachev], a champion, Umar [Nurmagomedov], the next contender, and we have Usman [Nurmagomedov], a champion.
"You guys are never gonna miss me because, in our team, our gym, we create champions. You guys are always gonna have a champion; don’t worry about this."
Check out Khabib Nurmagomedov's comments below (57:35):
Although Nurmagomedov has hung up his gloves for good, he’s frequently spotted training in the gym, particularly to help prepare his two cousins and his longtime friend, reigning UFC lightweight champion Makhachev. He’s also a regular presence in their corners during their fights.
Why did Khabib Nurmagomedov decide to retire during his prime years?
Before joining the American Kickboxing Academy in California, Khabib Nurmagomedov primarily refined his craft in the traditional martial art of combat sambo, training under the guidance of his father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, for much of his career in Dagestan.
However, in July 2020, the former UFC lightweight champion's father tragically passed away due to complications from COVID-19, which worsened an existing heart condition. Abdulmanap's passing compelled 'The Eagle' to make a promise to his mother, vowing to retire from MMA with an unblemished 29-0 record.