Dana White’s attempts to keep Khabib Numagomedov on the roster have failed, as the unbeaten Russian officially announced his retirement and the promotion has moved on with Michael Chandler vs. Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title.
Late on Thursday night, UFC president Dana White announced on social media that Khabib Nurmagomedov was indeed retiring at 29-0. Additionally, the news of the pairing between Chandler and Oliveira was first reported by ESPN.
29-0 it is.
He is 💯 officially retired. It was incredible to watch you work @TeamKhabib thank you for EVERYTHING and enjoy whatever is next my friend. pic.twitter.com/QeoSP12zw2
— danawhite (@danawhite) March 19, 2021
After the news circulated, the Russian superstar Khabib joined the social media buzz and concluded his fight journey with one final meeting with UFC president Dana White.
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Statement Following Retirement
The reign of the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov has come to an end. The undefeated fighter shared his final thoughts with the company and hopes all will understand his decision.
“It was a good dinner with some great people.” Khabib Nurmagomedov said. “dana white 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. Khabib continued.
Today there was a real conversation between real men.”
“Also thank you to all team, sparing partners, and all fans. Khabib added. I hope you will accept my decision and understand me.” He added.
Charles Oliveira vs. Michael Chandler On Deck For Vacant LW Title After Khabib Retirement
Following the announcement, the promotion decided to move forward with two hot contenders in Charles Oliveira and Michael Chandler competing for the vacant lightweight title.
Recently, Chandler sent shockwaves through the mixed martial arts community when he finished Dan Hooker in the opening round of his debut. In addition, the American wrestler managed to pull off the biggest win of his career on the co-main spot to the Conor McGregor vs. Dustin Poirier II card.
Conversely, Oliveira has been on a tear in the lightweight division and he’s on an 8-fight win streak. Given that the two were paired up, it stands to reason that perhaps fans may see a Poirier vs. McGregor III announcement coming sooner than later. After both of these bombshells, surely the lightweight landscape will be going through some big changes now.
What do you make of Khabib Nurmagomedov retiring? Were the correct lightweights chosen to compete for the lightweight title? Let us know below in the comment section what you think!
