Mixed martial arts coach Javier Mendez recently shared his thoughts on his YouTube channel about the dynamics inside the sport when a dominant figure steps back. The conversation centered on Islam Makhachev, the current UFC champion, and how the absence of Khabib Nurmagomedov has reshaped the landscape for him and others in the division. Mendez noted that Islam faced a period of adjustment after having grown accustomed to the steady presence and guidance of Khabib. The fighter has long trained under Nurmagomedov, who often filled the role of a trusted corner man during fights on the same card. The shift in routines and support structures could be a significant change in the short term for a champion who had relied on that alliance.
Khabib Nurmagomedov built a legendary record during his time in the sport, undefeated in his 29 appearances inside the octagon. His final bout came against American contender Justin Gaethje in late 2020, a victory that sealed his undefeated streak and sparked his retirement announcement. In his farewell, Nurmagomedov told his mother that he would step away from competition in order to honor a personal promise made to his late father and coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, a pioneering figure who passed away earlier that year due to complications from a coronavirus infection. The news of his retirement sent ripples through fans and fighters alike, prompting discussions about what the sport would look like without his presence and leadership in the corner.
In the wake of retirement, Nurmagomedov channelled his energy into new ventures, founding Eagle FC as a platform to promote competitive mixed martial arts beyond the UFC. The promotion reached a new audience with its first United States event held on January 28, 2022, signaling the expansion of his influence into a broader international arena and offering athletes another stage to showcase their skills. This move to establish a new promotion underlines the enduring interest in the Nurmagomedov fighting lineage and its potential to shape up-and-coming competitors and established veterans alike.
The discussion regarding Khabib’s current status and influence continues to be a topic of debate among coaches and analysts, including those who have observed his career from afar. The perspective shared touches on the evolving nature of mentorship and strategic guidance within elite teams, and it highlights how a leader’s absence can impact the performance mindset of a champion and his inner circle. The broader takeaway is that the sport remains deeply interconnected, with lessons that extend beyond individual matchups and into team dynamics, training philosophies, and long term career planning. This ongoing dialogue reflects the Canadian and American audiences’ interest in how top athletes navigate transitions while maintaining competitive edge. [Citation: MMA coverage and interviews across major outlets]