Audio By Carbonatix
Khabib Nurmagomedov has "100% officially retired", says UFC president Dana White.
Nurmagomedov, 32, announced his retirement after beating Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 in October to retain the lightweight title and extend his perfect professional record to 29.
White has previously said he hoped the Russian would return to seek a 30th win, but accepts his career is now over.
"29-0 it is," White said on Twitter.
"He is 100% officially retired. It was incredible to watch you work Khabib. Thank you for everything and enjoy whatever is next my friend."
Nurmagomedov is touted by some as the greatest MMA fighter of all time not just because of his perfect record, but the sheer dominance of those victories.
Opportunities for lucrative further fights, including rematches with Conor McGregor and Georges St-Pierre, were undoubtedly there, but Nurmagomedov had promised his mother the Gaethje fight would be his last. That vow was made following the death of his father, coach and mentor Abdulmanap last summer.
His retirement opens up a vacancy for the lightweight title, which will likely be decided at UFC 262 in May.
Latest Stories
-
Attendance at trial is a constitutional duty, not an option
1 hour -
RTI response raises questions over Bryan Acheampong’s military service claims
2 hours -
Two women granted bail over assault of 12-year-old; another remanded
2 hours -
Ghana’s IMF programme extension to August 2026 was to allow more time for final review work – IMF
2 hours -
No records of Bryan Acheampong’s enlistment and release from the US Army – Parliament says in RTI response
2 hours -
Daasebre Osei Bonsu III swears oath of allegiance to Asantehene and pledges unity and development for Asante Mampong
2 hours -
We had fruitful deliberations with private transport operators – Transport Minister
2 hours -
45-year-old farmer jailed 15 years for sexually abusing 14-year-old niece
3 hours -
Lawrence Ofori joins Casa Pia after mutually parting ways with Moreirense
3 hours -
Brazil have talent for World Cup, but victory not guaranteed – ESPN’s Bertozzi
3 hours -
NPP race: Don’t waste your vote, Bawumia is winning – Annoh-Dompreh to NPP delegates
3 hours -
NDC still brought Mahama even when he lost by over one million votes – Annoh-Dompreh to NPP
3 hours -
Ofori-Atta becoming a ‘brave coward’ – Franklin Cudjoe backs Arise Ghana protest
3 hours -
Trump links Greenland threat to Nobel Peace Prize snub, EU prepares to retaliate
3 hours -
More than 160 churchgoers kidnapped in twin Nigeria attacks – Clergy
4 hours