After a conversation with Khabib, Dana reveals that the Russian may rethink his decision to retire: 'I was emotional'

K. Nurmagomedov announced his retirement after the UFC 254. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Almost a week after shocking the world and announcing his early retirement from MMA, the career of Khabib Nurmagomedov may get a new chapter soon. UFC president, Dana White, revealed that he spoke with one of his main stars and spoke optimistically about having his pupil perform again in the octagon.

See too

Podcast SUPER FIGHTS #015 analyzes Khabib's retirement at UFC 254 and Anderson Silva's farewell to the UFC

Eternal Khabib: who is the athlete behind the 29 victories? Follow the trajectory of the Russian, who leaves MMA undefeated

Gegard Mousasi controls Douglas Lima, wins on points and wins middleweight belt at Bellator 250

Video: Fighter achieves brutal knockout with flying knee at Bellator 250

“I'll tell you this, and I haven't told anyone yet, but Khabib and I have been talking. He was completely emotional that night (UFC 254), when he won that fight (against Justin gaethje). I feel like he's going to try for his 30th victory”, said the president, in an interview with 'Zack GelbShow'.

In the MMA business for over 20 years, Dana knows the tricks of persuasion like no one else. Even knowing that the lightweight champion (up to 70,3kg) acts differently than the vast majority, White has an argument that supports his opinion when it comes to the Russian.

“I think (he will come back). I don't think he will retire. His father (Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov) would like him to win 30 fights and he wants to honor his father's wish”, concluded White.

Last weekend, Khabib shocked the world again by passing Justin Gaethje, who, on paper, was considered his most complicated opponent to date. After submitting – and erasing – his rival in the second round, the Russian, in an interview still in the octagon, removed his gloves and, very emotional, made the announcement. At the time, the athlete justified his attitude by remembering his father and mentor, passed away at the beginning of July, victim of complications from Covid-19.

Before retiring, Khabib never hid his desire to stage a superfight against one of the greatest phenomena in the history of MMA: Georges St-Pierre. This could be the trick up Dana's sleeve to convince her champion to return to the Octagon.