“We Are in a Dirty, Filthy Sport”- Chael Sonnen Gives His Verdict on Khabib Nurmagomedov’s UFC Legacy

Khabib Nurmagomedov has left an undeniable mark on the sport of MMA. The Dagestani superstar is one of the very few fighters to have an undefeated record. What is more impressive is that ‘The Eagle’ is 29-0. It is a truly remarkable feat for a generational talent in Khabib Nurmagomedov.  

Following his win against Justin Gaethje at UFC 254, Nurmagomedov announced his retirement from the sport. However, many fans and pundits alike think that ‘The Eagle’ retired just as he was entering his prime. However, Khabib’s legacy inside the octagon remains the stuff of legends. 

Read: “I think he’s not going to retire”- Dana White stuns everyone with Khabib Nurmagomedov news

Khabib Nurmagomedov and his legacy; Chael Sonnen gives his thoughts

Chael Sonnen posted a clip on Twitter of him from his show, ‘Ariel & the Bad Guy’. The caption read, “What is Khabib’s legacy?”. In the clip, Sonnen said, “Oh Ariel come on, this guy’s legacy it was only getting better. He was 28-0. By the way Ariel I gotta bring you a fun fact, that if you did not look this up, you would think I’m making this up. Did you know two of the three judges gave Gaethje the first round…. Meaning Khabib has now lost two rounds in his career….. The man has never lost a fight. He’s only lost two rounds. He’s done a 100 rounds.”

Sonnen continued, “We’re in a dirty, filthy sport where you stab your best friend in the back just to get a leg up. Not Khabib, he did everything with heart. He did it the right way, did it with honor, with respect. He never broke any rules, he treated people the right way. That I think Ariel is his legacy.”

Khabib has always been a selfless individual with an extremely close and tight-knit group around him. This consists of training partners, coaches, cousins and people who have been with him for decades. The camaraderie shown between the men is something that is extremely impressive. 

‘The Eagle’ has often emphasized the utmost importance of respecting his opponent. Bar McGregor, he has been extremely cordial and respectful of everyone he has faced which is something that serves as an example to aspiring fighters. 

What do you think is Khabib Nurmagomedov’s legacy in the sport of Mixed Martial Arts?