Nurmagomedov is retiring from MMA. What’s next for the former UFC champion?

Khabib gathered his fighters and spoke about the decision

A few days ago, Nurmagomedov said he spoke with his team’s fighters and told them something important. At the same time, Khabib did not disclose the content of the conversation. However, many media reported that Nurmagomedov was leaving MMA.

The information was de facto confirmed a few days later. Nurmagomedov in his social networks reposted a recording that told about his departure. There was no comment from Khabib, but everything was clear here anyway.

“Khabib is leaving the MMA industry to make ends meet. This applies to his coaching career and all things MMA. The reason for this is Khabib’s desire to spend time with his family,” indicates the entry, which Nurmagomedov reposted.

In general, Nurmagomedov’s decision did not come as a surprise. Ever since he left the battles, there have been rumors of his return. But Khabib immediately said that would not happen. The Russian spoke about the promise he made to his mother after the death of his father and coach Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. And, most importantly, it was obvious how tired Khabib was of mixed martial arts.

After retiring from fighting, he talked a lot more about football than MMA. Nurmagomedov dreamed of a professional football career, and in an interview he even said that mixed martial arts had never been his real passion. It’s clear that over the years of professional sport, he’s made huge compromises and hasn’t seen his family for months. Now he doesn’t need it anymore.

Motivation is key

Fight Nights promotion founder Kamil Gadzhiev spoke about Nurmagomedov’s departure.

“He had a specific mission. First, he wanted to prove the strength of the Dagestan school, to become the first UFC champion from Russia. Then we remember that Khabib’s father said that Islam would be the next “It was fundamental for Khabib to take the matter to its logical conclusion. There is no motivation left. I see no motivation. He has been fully successful as an athlete and as a coach,” Match TV quotes Gadzhiev.

Even before Khabib’s decision was announced, ex-boxer Kostya Tszyu doubted Nurmagomedov would quit MMA.

“It’s clear he’s ended his fighting career, but he’s unlikely to leave the sport. I don’t think he’ll want to leave. Why would he do that? Express.”

And famous MMA fighter Sergei Kharitonov even suggested that Nurmagomedov could now start a political career.

“Khabib could try his hand at politics. Why exactly there? He has respect and fame. And, of course, authority,” Sport-Express quoted Kharitonov as saying.

However, for now, it looks like Nurmagomedov won’t be involved in politics or anything else. Khabib was lucky enough to just enjoy life and spend time with his family. He definitely deserved it.

Anton Mozgovoy, Athletistic.