Javier Mendez, head coach of AKA gym, explained that Khabib Nurmagomedov did not attend UFC 294 because he prioritized family time. “Sports Express.”
“Khabib has his reasons, but he told me he wanted to be with his family. You either stay with your family or pursue something else. He chose family, and it was the right choice,” Mendez stated.
In the event’s marquee matchup, UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev defended his title for the second time by knocking out Australian challenger Alexander Volkanovski in the opening round. The Russian fighter earned $1.79 million for the victory, while Volkanovski took home $1.58 million.
In the night’s co-main affair, Khamzat Chimaev defeated Kamaru Usman by decision. The Chechen-born Swedish fighter collected $865,000 for the win, with Usman earning $1.02 million.
Initially, Makhachev was slated to face Charles Oliveira at the Abu Dhabi event, but Oliveira withdrew after sustaining an injury during training and was unable to compete.
Previously, Khabib expressed gratitude toward Makhachev after the victory over Volkanovski, praising his teammate’s performance and dedication.