UFC president Dana White later revealed that he made several attempts to dissuade Khabib Nurmagomedov from stepping away from the sport, expressing that the lightweight champion’s presence was still badly needed inside the octagon. White’s reflections underscored a belief that Nurmagomedov’s influence extended beyond wins and records, shaping the culture and competitive energy of the sport in a way that only a few fighters can claim.
White also shared that he had tried to persuade Daniel Cormier and Khabib Nurmagomedov to reconsider their decisions to retire. He noted that Henry Cejudo, who had taken a long hiatus, came back and looked formidable in his performance against Marlon Sterling, proving that a gap in competition does not necessarily erase a fighter’s edge. Yet White emphasized that the choice to retire is personal and ultimately rests with the athletes themselves, even if the urge to continue competing lingers for some.
In a remarkable career spanning 29 MMA fights, Nurmagomedov had never tasted defeat, a record that reinforced his reputation for relentless pressure, superior grappling, and an unyielding fight IQ. His final bout, a win over American contender Justin Gaethje in late 2020, concluded in dramatic fashion as the referee intervened to stop the contest, confirming Nurmagomedov’s supremacy in the matchup and sealing his undefeated professional record at that moment.
Moments after that victory, Nurmagomedov announced his retirement, explaining that he had committed to his mother not to pursue further competition after losing his father earlier that year. The decision marked the end of a storied era and led to him channeling his leadership into new ventures, including the creation of Eagle FC, a promotion that aimed to showcase seasoned fighters and rising talents on a broader舞台 while preserving the spirit of his fighting philosophy.
Former UFC athlete Henry Cejudo later commented on his compatriot Belal Muhammad, offering perspectives on Muhammad’s recent performances, resilience, and trajectory within the organization. The exchange highlighted ongoing dialogue among fighters about legacy, preparation, and the evolving landscape of mixed martial arts in North America, with observers noting how veteran voices continue to influence younger competitors and the strategic decisions that shape careers in the sport [Citation: MMA Coverage].