Legendary Boxer Manny Pacquiao has taken to Twitter to congratulate UFC’s Khabib Nurmagomedov. After yet another comprehensive win by the “Eagle” from Dagestan, he announced his retirement from the sport.

Tributes poured in from the entire combat sports community for the undefeated, undisputed champion. Manny Pacquiao was one of the many legendary figures to give Khabib Nurmagomedov the respect he deserved after the fight.

Khabib beat Justin Gaethje by submission in the second round at UFC 254 at Fight Island in Abu Dhabi. This was the Russian’s first fight without his father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov.

After the fight, Khabib confirmed that he is retiring from the sport because of a promise he made to his mother. The sudden nature of this announcement caused a stir in the combat sports community, even overshadowing the performance itself.

Manny Pacquiao, regarded as one of the greatest boxers ever, also showed his respect to the undefeated star. He wrote on his Twitter:

“Congrats to the [G.O.A.T.] [Khabib Nurmagomedov] on a great win and a great career! It was a privilege to watch you compete. Respect!”

This is high praise from one legend of combat sports to another. And Getting praise from an athlete with the pedigree of Manny Pacquiao shows just how good Khabib Nurmagomedov is.

Khabib Nurmagomedov and Manny Pacquiao showing mutual respect in the past

Back in 2015, prior to Pacquiao’s famous fight against Mayweather, Nurmagomedov was asked who he backed.

He said, “I love Pacquiao. Mayweather is great, but I think he has a lot of money.” He said that Pacquiao would dominate the latter rounds and get the win.

This is not Pacquiao making the most of the occasion to show his respect, but he has respected Khabib for a long time now.

Manny Pacquiao and Khabib Nurmagomedov are undoubtedly two of the greatest athletes in sports. They have set a fantastic example in their respective sports.