Khabib Nurmagomedov has finally shared how the loss of his father — and lifelong coach — Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov changed everything, cutting short one of the most dominant MMA careers in history.
Back in 2020, Khabib was on top of the world as the UFC Lightweight Champion, preparing for his long-awaited showdown with Tony Ferguson at UFC 249. Then the COVID-19 pandemic struck, canceling the fight and upending the world.
Tragedy soon followed. That summer, Abdulmanap passed away at just 57 years old due to complications from the coronavirus — leaving Khabib devastated.
In a recent media appearance in Chicago, “The Eagle” reflected on that painful period, admitting that he had planned to fight much longer — but everything changed when his father was gone.
“It was not only about my mother, it was everything that happened,” Khabib explained. “I saw a lot of rumors about why I retired. But if my father was still alive, he would make me fight a little bit longer. I had just turned 32 when I finished.”
Abdulmanap had been more than a coach — he was the architect of Khabib’s legendary discipline and mental strength. Without him, the fire that fueled his career faded.
Khabib continued:
“It’s hard to explain. Everything happened so fast — father passed away, the UFC made an interim title with Gaethje and Ferguson, and they told me, ‘We’ll give you one month off. Come back and tell us what you’ll do.’ It was very difficult.”
Ultimately, Khabib honored his late father and mother’s wishes — fighting one last time at UFC 254, defeating Justin Gaethje in a flawless performance before collapsing in tears inside the Octagon. That moment marked the end of an era.
“It was not easy,” Khabib admitted. “It was very, very difficult. But I survived. Like father told me, you know how people make diamonds? It’s under high pressure. And it was very high pressure. But it is what it is. I think I did not quit.”
Khabib retired undefeated at 29-0, leaving behind a legacy of dominance, humility, and respect — and a reminder that even the strongest warriors carry the deepest pain.
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