Khabib Nurmagomedov has retired from MMA following his submission victory over Justin Gaethje.
The UFC 254 main event is just barely over but now the Mixed Marital Arts career of Khabib Nurmagomeiov is now over as well. Nurmagomedov won his 29th victory in spectacular fashion as he submitted Justin Gaethje to retain his lightweight title. Following the win, Nurmagomedov was very emotional and announced his retirement.
"No way I'm going to come here without my father." #UFC254 pic.twitter.com/Mra46AIius
— UFC (@ufc) October 24, 2020
“This is my last fight, there’s no way I’m going to be back without my father,” Nurmagomedov said in his post-fight interview. “When UFC called me with Justin, I talk with my mother for three days. I promise it will be my last fight. If I give my word, I have to follow this.”
Legendary. pic.twitter.com/adLnh73AMr
— UFC (@ufc) October 24, 2020
Clearly emotional following the win, Nurmagomedov fell to his knees in the middle of the cage Gaethje, who he just defeated, came over and consoled him in a great show of sportsmanship.
The word retirement has been thrown around quite a bit lately for Nurmagomedov who had mentioned before that he wanted to win 30 fights. Now at 29 wins, he leaves his gloves in the Octagon.
Just four months after the death of his father and longtime coach. Nurmagomedov will walk away from the sport that he dominated for so many years.