Artem Tarasov comments on Khabib Nurmagomedov’s UFC departure and possible future plans
Artem Tarasov, a blogger and pop MMA figure, shared his perspective on why Khabib Nurmagomedov stepped away from the mixed martial arts scene. Tarasov believes Khabib will continue to stay close to the fighters he trained and prepared for battles, even if he is taking a break from active competition. He also suggests that Nurmagomedov could be exploring other serious pursuits beyond the octagon.
Tarasov explained that Islam Makhachev, who has long been treated like a brother by Khabib, may remain by his side in future fights. He noted that Makhachev has not served as a day-to-day coach for every fighter but has shared his knowledge and acted as a sparring partner. According to Tarasov, this dynamic hints that Khabib may not sever ties with MMA entirely. Instead, he might simply step back to focus on different important endeavors or answer calls from influential figures who could be interested in his leadership and experience. This interpretation aligns with the idea that Nurmagomedov could pursue strategic roles while maintaining a connection to the sport he helped elevate.
Nurmagomedov himself confirmed his departure by reposting a message on social media that carried a note of gratitude to his team and a cautious hint about the future. Previously, he posted a photo with his team accompanied by thanks and a vague caption expressing hope that his decision would benefit all involved. At that moment, the public was not aware that he had stepped away from MMA altogether. This sequence of posts added fuel to ongoing speculation about his next moves and potential ventures beyond competing in the cage.
In several discussions, Tarasov reiterated his belief that Khabib would not leave MMA behind entirely. He argued that the sense of responsibility Khabib carries toward his collaborators and the sport itself would keep him connected, even if his daily routine changes. The possibility remains that Nurmagomedov could pursue leadership roles, mentorship opportunities, or high-level advisory work while exploring new challenges outside the sport that has defined much of his career. This nuanced view offers fans a lens for understanding how a fighter of Khabib’s stature might navigate transition while preserving his legacy in North American audiences.