K. Nurmagomedov (left) has been retired since October, when he defeated J. Gaethje, in the UFC 254. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Officially retired from MMA a month ago, there is much debate as to whether the decision to Khabib Nurmagomedov is definitive or whether the athlete will rethink his future in the sport. Despite having publicly declared that he wants to stay away, the fighter has shown signs that he may surrender to the wishes of his boss, Dana White, who insists on having the Russian in Ultimate.
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“See you soon, Dana White,” wrote the champion on his Instagram account.
Khabib's message, however, can have two interpretations. Retired since the triumph over Justin gaethje, UFC 253, the Russian, still in the Octagon, confessed to a promise he made to his mother that the fight against the American would seal the end of his career.
On the other hand, White, who chose not to cut Nurmagomedov from the organization's rankings and not dethrone the star – even with his retirement announced – continues to say that he will give the Russian the necessary time to better analyze the decision.
The key point for Khabib to leave the sport was the early death of his father, who passed away at the beginning of July, a victim of complications from Covid-19. Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov was the main supporter of his son's career and a fundamental part of the 'Eagle's' preparation for their clashes.
Upon beating Justin, Khabib, very emotional, declared that it made no sense to continue his career without his father by his side. In this way, the athlete must decide in the coming months what the outcome of his career in sport will be.
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