Home

UFC

“He Represents Real Mixed Martial Arts”- Khabib Nurmagomedov Bows Down in Respect to the Most Complete UFC Fighter

Published 11/21/2021, 8:22 AM EST

Follow Us

via Getty

Khabib Nurmagomedov and Georges St-Pierre are inarguably two of the greatest fighters in the history of UFC. Hence, many UFC fans and pundits compare them on several occasions.

The former lightweight champion and undefeated Nurmagomedov retired from professional fighting with a 29-0 record. Meanwhile, GSP has 26-2 professional MMA resume under his name. Furthermore, both the former UFC combatants held several records in the sport.

Hence, many wanted to see them clash inside the octagon to settle the argument of the greatest ever. Unfortunately, the fight never saw the light of the day. However, when it comes to GSP, the Dagestan native has nothing but respect for the legendary fighter.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

While in talks with Daniel Cormier, ‘The Eagle’ talked highly about GSP. He said, I think he was the first fighter who become a well-rounded fighter.”

“He can strike, he can wrestle, he can take you down, he can hold you there, he can give you crazy ground and pound, he can do a lot of submissions. My opinion on that time, he was like first in UFC. You know, he represents real mixed martial arts.”

WATCH THIS STORY: Five Potential Match-Ups for Ketlen Vieira After Her Victory Over Miesha Tate at UFC Vegas 43

When asked about what GSP means to the people from his country in Canada, Khabib responded by saying, “He represents real mixed martial arts. And when Georges St-Pierre become athlete of the year, and he become I think three-time. Hockey is huge in Canada and GSP beat him. He put MMA on next level, in Canada. All these years, like five to six years, he was the ambassador of the UFC around the world. It’s my opinion”

Khabib Nurmagomedov vs Georges St-Pierre: The Fight That Never Happened

‘The Eagle’ was at the pinnacle of the lightweight division during his time in the UFC. He became the lightweight champion in 2018 and had three successful title defenses under his name.

Meanwhile, GSP reigned the welterweight division in his time. However, he retired from the sport after becoming the two-division champion by defeating Michael Bisping in 2017.

Trending

Get instantly notified of the hottest UFC stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

via Getty

On the other hand, Nurmagomedov lost his beloved father just before his title defense against Justin Gaethje in 2020. Hence, after winning the bout, ‘The Eagle’ hanged his gloves forever, as he promised his mother that he won’t fight without his father by his side.

“It’s Illegal To Throw Elbows”- Max Holloway Reveals What He Told Yair Rodriguez at the Hospital

Nurmagomedov vs GSP was one fight that the UFC community fantasized about. Many believed this might bring the fighters out of their retirement. However, the fighters currently have no intentions to return to the octagon.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Even though the UFC supremo Dana White offered the fight on several occasions, the bout never came to fruition. It was surely a fight to make, but the possibility of it happening now is near to zero.

What are your thoughts on Nurmagomedov’s words for GSP? Do you guys think this fight will ever happen? Let us know in the comments below.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

 

 

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Afnan Chougle

973Articles

One take at a time

Afnan Chougle is a UFC author at EssentiallySports. Besides writing, this Media graduate is an integral part of the digital web stories team for combat sports. Before joining EssentiallySports, Afnan gained valuable experience as an intern at Jiostudios Production House.
Show More>