Featured Image Credit: Getty/YouTube@DC_MMA
Topics: Khabib Nurmagomedov, UFC, MMA
Marcus Chan
A Khabib Nurmagomedov insider has revealed confirmed he rejected a big-money deal to return to UFC.
Russian Nurmagomedov was the longest reigning UFC Lightweight Champion when he held the title from April 2018 to March 2021.
Nurmagomedov retired back in March 2021 with a record of 29 wins and zero defeats.
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Over the years, there have been rumours that the 35-year-old could make a sensational return to the octagon.
Now, former MMA champion Daniel Cormier has revealed that Nurmagomedov rejected a $40 million deal to return to the sport.
He said on his YouTube channel: “Khabib told us he turned down $40 million. He said $40 million, the dude said $40 million. To come back, to fight in the UFC.
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“I don't know how many fights he was meaning, I don't what event. He just said, 'I turned away $40 million brother, I'm done’”
Nurmagomedov’s coach, Javier Mendez recently responded to rumours that the Russian could return for UFC 300.
He said: “I’m just letting you guys know that you know, stop all this nonsense [on the internet] regarding Khabib [coming back to the UFC] and me and him training.
“There’s been no such thing happening. We’re not discussing training. We never have. Khabib is still devoted to what he said [about not fighting again].”
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Mendez continued: “He’s devoted his time to his family. He’s not working people’s corners. He’s not gonna ever fight. To my knowledge, it has never been spoken about.”
This week, UFC boss Dana White revealed that Justin Gaethje will take on Max Holloway for the BMF title during UFC 300.
He said: “50 wins between them, 34 finishes. Two of the best strikers in the sport, two of the most durable guys in the sport, two of the most aggressive guys in the sport.
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“Gaethje destroys all guys with leg kicks and power in both hands. Max is regarded by many as the best boxer in the UFC and has made many top 10 guys look like they don’t even belong in there with him.
“Two of the all-time greats in their divisions, and this fight will be five rounds for the BMF title.”