Khabib Nurmagomedov Retires From MMA After Beating Justin Gaethje At UFC 254

Khabib Nurmagomedov has announced his retirement from MMA after defending his UFC lightweight title against Justin Gaethje at UFC 254.

Nurmagomedov, 32, submitted Gaethje in the second round of their UFC championship clash.

And 'The Eagle' called time on his glittering career following his 29th professional victory.

Speaking to Jon Anik inside the Octagon, he said: "Today I want to say this is my last fight.

"No way am I coming here without my father. When UFC comes to me about Justin [Gaethje] I spoke with my mother for three days.

"She didn't want me to fight without my father. I promised to her this was going to be my last fight and if I give her my word, I have to follow through with this.

"There is only one thing I want from UFC, to put me as No 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world because I deserve it."

Nurmagomedov's emotional decision to walk away from the UFC comes after his father and trainer Abdulmanap sadly passed away due to complications of COVID-19.

The Russian superstar retires from MMA having never lost a fight and boasting victories over the likes of Dustin Poirier and Conor McGregor, among others.

Topics: Khabib Nurmagomedov, Justin Gaethje, UFC News, Fight News, UFC

Nasir Jabbar

Nasir Jabbar is a journalist at SPORTbible. He graduated from Bath Spa University with a BA in Media Communications. He's a combat sport aficionado, and has contributed to MMA websites AddictedMMA and CagePotato. Nasir has covered some of the biggest fights, while interviewing the likes of Conor McGregor, Darren Till, Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. He's also an avid Bristol City fan.

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