K. Nurmagomedov (left) has been retired since October, when he defeated J. Gaethje, in the UFC 254. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Known as one of the most important names for the growth of MMA, Dana White knows how to negotiate within the sport like few others. In the business for over 20 years, the 'big boss' is currently in a situation where he needs to convince one of his biggest stars, Khabib Nurmagomedov, to give up early retirement and return to the Octagon. In an interview with BT.Sport, the president commented on the matter again and continued with great optimism.
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“I think his father, deep down, wanted him (Khabib) to have 30 fights. He wants to achieve this because he knows it's what his father would want. We will see. He and I are getting together next month to talk. He might not want to fight, I don't know the answer to that. But I'm confident I can convince him (to come back),” Dana said.
Khabib's retirement took many sports enthusiasts by surprise. The news took on global proportions as soon as the Russian, in October, announced the news in the UFC octagon, after finishing Justin gaethje and unify the lightweight belt (up to 70,3kg).
In his speech – very emotional – Nurmagomedov justified the absence of his father, who died from complications from Covid-19 at the beginning of July – as the main factor. Abdulmanap was, in addition to being a father, the martial arts champion's main trainer and supporter.
Khabib left the sport undefeated in 29 appearances. Before his father's death, the athlete never hid his desire to test himself against the legendary Georges St-Pierre, who also welcomed the superfight.
Although Nurmagomedov continues to stand firm on his decision, UFC remains confident that its champion will return. The fighter remains the leader in the organization's lightweight and pound-for-pound rankings on its official website.
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