K. Nurmagomedov (left) has been retired since October, when he defeated J. Gaethje, in the UFC 254. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Almost three months have passed since Khabib Nurmagomedov shocked the world and announced his early retirement from MMA, after UFC 254. Concerned about the risk of losing one of his biggest stars, the president of Ultimate, Dana White, continues in the 'fight' to try to change the decision of the current lightweight champion (up to 70,3kg.). In an interview with 'ESPN', the 'big boss', stated that he will spare no effort to try to bring the legend back to the Octagon.
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“I think he should fight again and I'm going to push him as far as I can for one more (fight)”, said the agent.
In addition to the financial side, Dana seeks to work on the emotional side to convince Khabib to return. The athlete hung up his gloves influenced by the death of his father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, in July, and the loss of his main coach motivated the athlete to stop.
A strategist and expert in the 'game of persuasion' like few others, White argues that Abdulmanap's dream was for his son to leave the sport after completing 30 (undefeated) appearances. Today, Khabib has 29 fights and no defeats.
“As a promoter, you always want the best guys in the world. At the same time, when a guy wants to retire, he probably should if it's on his mind. The difference with a guy like Khabib is that he went through a lot, after losing his father, which shook him. It’s something they built together, and his father wanted him to reach 30 victories”, he concluded.
Nurmagomedov performed for the last time in the clash against Justin gaethje, for the unification of the lightweight title. At the time, the Russian had no difficulty beating one of the best in the category, winning by submission in the second round.
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