Khabib Nurmagomedov announces his retirement after defeating Justin Gaethje

Undefeated UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov defeated Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 to become 29–0. Following the win, he announced his retirement from the sport.

UFC 254 was Nurmagomedov’s first fight since the death of his father and trainer in July who passed due to Covid-19 complications. In the second round of the fight, he choked Gaethye into unconsciousness by a triangle hold. (As the Los Angeles Times report.) Immediately following the win, he dropped to his knees in an emotional moment as opponent Gaethye embraced him. After that, Nurmagomedov begins to take off his gloves. Major fighting fans understand what it means when a fighter does this: retirement.

Nurmagomedov said post-fight, “No way I’m going to come here without my father.” He followed by stating of a promise he made to his mother, “I promised her it was going to be my last fight. I have to follow this.”

Nurmagomedov finishes his UFC career at 29–0, defeating some of the best fighters in the sport. He gained the respect of his peers and fighting fans all over the world. And now, he can walk away with his head held high, knowing he made his father proud. (Link below)

Read more about Khabib Nurmagomedov’s UFC 254 win and his retirement here.