In a sport that takes more from its fighters than it ever gives back – and where retirement is often forced upon against the will of one fighter’s soul – Khabib Nurmagomedov may have closed the book on a perfect career.
The news of Nurmagomedov’s immediate retirement from MMA came moments after he had just submitted Justin Gaethje in the second round at UFC 254 on Saturday night, to extend his unbeaten run to 29-0. It was also the Russian’s first fight without his father and coach, Abdulmanap, who died from complications caused by coronavirus earlier this year.
The 32-year-old had already been touted as the greatest MMA fighter ever – however his shock retirement immediately reignited the debate over where he ranks in the history of the sport.
Even though interim champion Gaethje (22-3) was expected by many experts to give Nurmagomedov the toughest challenge of his 12-year professional career, ‘The Eagle’ was flawless in combining his pressure style, sturdy chin and dominant ground game, delivering just about a near-perfect performance.
After the emotional win, the superstar said: ‘Today, I want to say this is my last fight.
‘When UFC called me about Justin, I spoke with my mother and I said I wouldn’t fight without [my] father.
‘And if I give my word, then I must follow it. UFC must make me the No 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world, because I deserve it.
‘I want to say thank you to Lorenzo and Dana. All this UFC team, everybody, they made a great show.
‘Thank you to Justin, thank you brother. I know how you take care of your people.
‘One day something will happen for you, you never know what is going to happen tomorrow.
‘Today is my last fight here in the UFC.’
Nurmagomedov came out with a relentless pressure and pace in the first round, destabilising his opponent.
He caught Gaethje with a number of jabs, keeping him on his feet, nor allowing him to take to the centre of the octagon.
‘The Highlight’ did land a brutal uppercut and hook combination when Nurmagomedov missed a flying knee – however, the Russian walked straight through it and continued to pressure.
The start of the second round opened with Gaethje landing a leg kick, but Nurmagomedov did not wilt.
He managed to get a hold of Gaethje, forcing him on to the floor and took his back before moving into full mount.
There, he swiftly locked in a triangle choke, leaving his opponent little chance of escaping.
Moments later, Gaethje was forced to tap – which the referee initially missed – before he waved off the fight.
Shortly after his victory, Nurmagomedov posted a photo of himself with his father on Instagram with the caption, ‘When ALLAH with you, nobody can broke (sic) you, nobody. Thanks Father for everything, you teach all my life, may ALLAH grant you the highest Paradise.’
