Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has been honored with an award named after Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates. The recognition, announced by Al Maktoum himself across his social channels, adds another chapter to a career marked by legendary achievements in combat sports and a lasting impact on global athletic communities.
Since its inception in 2009, the award has honored teams, athletes, and organizations that have driven substantial progress in sports both worldwide and within the UAE. It serves as a beacon for those who push the boundaries of performance, discipline, and community outreach, celebrating exemplars who inspire younger generations to pursue excellence in athletic pursuits.
Nurmagomedov stepped away from the ring following a decisive victory over American contender Justin Gaethje in the autumn of 2020. In the aftermath, he explained that his retirement was grounded in a personal vow to his late father and his mother’s wishes, a decision that reflected the weight of family ties and cultural values in his life. After concluding his competitive tenure, Nurmagomedov redirected his visionary energy toward entrepreneurship by founding Eagle FC, a promotion that aimed to broaden opportunities for fighters and audiences alike while preserving the sport’s integrity and competitiveness.
One of the defining moments of his career came on October 7, 2018, when he defeated Irish challenger Conor McGregor at UFC 229. The bout remains a touchstone in MMA history, illustrating Nurmagomedov’s relentless grappling mastery, strategic discipline, and ability to rise to the occasion under intense global scrutiny.
Over his professional MMA journey, Nurmagomedov compiled an undefeated record, stepping into the cage for 29 bouts and leaving with a perfect winning streak. His influence extended beyond the octagon, as a public opinion poll conducted in 2021 named him sports person of the year, underscoring his status as a global figure who transcended sport through leadership, mentorship, and exemplary conduct. On October 22, 2023, he publicly announced his decision to retire from all fighting-related activities, signaling a deliberate shift toward new ventures and personal commitments.
In broader conversations, Nurmagomedov’s name has arisen in connection with high-profile meetings and events, including engaging discussions after a Formula 1 race where he was described as a unique presence in the world of mixed martial arts. These moments reflect how his reputation has become a cross-disciplinary bridge, drawing attention from fans of combat sports and beyond. [attribution: official statements and contemporaneous media coverage]