Health problems force pause in the career of a promising Russian UFC fighter; retirement is not ruled out

Z. Magomedsharipov has not performed in MMA since 2019. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Sad news in the world of MMA. Considered a Russian promise in sport, Zabit Magomedsharipov He will need to interrupt his career to treat an illness in his immune system. The athlete is prevented from competing until the treatment he will undergo has been completed. The information was confirmed by featherweight manager (up to 65,7kg), Rizvan Magomedov, to the agency 'TASS'.

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“Zabit has health problems, more specifically with his immune system, and will not return to the octagon until these problems are resolved. They (the problems) do not allow Zabit to prepare properly for his fights. The fighter cannot undergo surgery at the moment, and we don't know if he will be able to continue his career”, declared the agent.

At 30 years old, Maagomedsharipov, until now, was considered one of the favorites to take over the belt in the division led by Alexander Volkanovsky. Known for his versatility, performing at a high level both on the feet and in grappling, the Russian, however, has to deal with fight cancellations. The fighter has not stepped into the Octagon since 2019.

A professional in MMA since 2012, Zabit has had a successful career in mixed martial arts to date. The Russian currently has 19 commitments, having won on 18 occasions and losing on one, in 2013.

Magomedsharipov's last performance took place in front of Calvin kattar, almost a year and a half ago. On that occasion, the athlete beat his rival in a unanimous decision by the judges.

Today, the Russian, who was once among the division's elite, finds himself outside the top 15 in the category. Low attendance in Ultimate last year prevented the Russian from advancing in the category.