Why did Khabib Nurmagomedov retire? The Eagle dedicates immaculate career to late father

With just over a minute left in Round 2 of Khabib vs Gaethje showdown, champ mand to bring Highlight down to mat with a fantastic takedown off a transition. What followed next was Khabib's relenting pressure as he executed a triangle choke, forcing Gaethje to submit. referee missed Gaethje's tap, instead stopped match when challenger was already half unconscious.

Khabib extended his immaculate MMA record to 29-0 with ar dominant performance at UFC 254. That's exactly point where fans left stunned as Khabib Nurmagomedov paid a tribute to his late far, Abdulmanap, weeping in middle of octagon before leaving his gloves at centre and declaring it was his last fight in UFC.

Also Read | Khabib Retirement Anunced After Beating Gaethje

Why did Khabib Nurmagomedov retire?

Khabib Nurmagomedov's reason to retire as an MMA fighter was simple: he did t want to do it without his late far and coach. Khabib's far died on July 3, 2020, due to complications caused by coronavirus infection. Khabib, who idolised his far throughout his fighting career, previously admitted that it would be very difficult for him to continue fighting without guidance and support of his far.

While 'Khabib retirement' floated in and out of internet several times during past few months, Russian never publicly hinted to retirement. Instead, he opted to squash retirement rumours, stating he still has a lot left to do in UFC. This made his post-fight anuncement at UFC 254 even more surprising for MMA community.

Also Read | Khabib Nurmagomedov Plans UK Trip After UFC 254, Wants To Watch Man United, Liverpool

In an emotional post-fight interview, Khabib said: "re’s way I’m going to be back without my far. When UFC called me about Justin (Gaethje), I spoke with my mor for three days. She doesn't kw how I fight without far, but I promised it’s going to be my last fight, and if I give my word, I have to follow it.”

Dstani fighter said he has accomplished his far's dream with his stellar UFC career. only thing left for Khabib to accomplish in company is for him to rank . 1 in pound-for-pound rankings in UFC - Khabib is expected to topple current . 1, Jon Jones, after his win against Gaethje at UFC 254. 

Nurmagomedov also squashed interest in defending his title against winner between Cor McGregor and Dustin Poirier, having "choked out" both in 2018 and 2019 respectively. "Today is my last fight in UFC. It was my far's dream. Justin and Cor will fight in January, I have choked both out, I am t interested in this," he added.

UFC 254 highlights: Khabib retirement

Khabib UFC career

Khabib Nurmagomedov, 32, retired from MMA with an immaculate 29-0 record. He scored 13 wins in UFC, having made his debut in company back in 2012. Out of his 29 wins, 8 came via TKO, while he forced his opponents to submit a whopping 11 times. His last three wins in UFC - over Gaethje, Poirier and McGregor - all came via submission. Khabib won  lightweight title in 2018, beating Al Iaquinta (via TKO) for vacant belt. He has three successful title defences to his name. 

Also Read | NBA World Reacts To Khabib's Sensational Win Over Justin Gaethje And UFC Star's Retirement

(Im Credits: UFC Twitter)