Khabib Nurmagomedov Offers Retirement Advice to Future UFC Fighters Amidst Ex-Rival Tony Ferguson’s Tragic Plight

Khabib Nurmagomedov, the former UFC lightweight champion, has a message for the young fighters in context to Tony Ferguson’s recent devastating knockout loss at UFC 274.

Nurmagomedov’s ex rival Tony ‘El Cucuy’ Ferguson made a comeback to the UFC octagon last Saturday. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a bad one for the former interim lightweight champion.

Ferguson took on Michael Chandler on the main card of UFC 274. Both the lightweight combatants remained on the foot for the first round. However, just 17 seconds into the second round, ‘Iron’ Chandler found a moment and landed a vicious front kick on Ferguson. This knocked ‘El Cucuy’ out cold. He was flat on the mat for a few minutes even after the bout ended.

Ferguson is regarded as one of the most vicious fighters in the promotion. Moreover, he has lost only once via a knockout. Hence, this loss came as a shock to many. Even his rival ‘The Eagle,’ reacted to the loss with a message.

Nurmagomedov wrote in the comments of a recent post, “Each thing has a place and time. If you have an understanding in this, then you are lucky. But if you think that you will be in this game for a long time, then you will finish the game. And the hardest thing is when your principles harm your health.”

WATCH THIS STORY: Tony Ferguson’s Most Insane Training Methods That Will Leave You Confused

“Young fighters need to know not to make long-term plans related to a professional career. Everything changes in one day. You always need to know what you will do after your career (message to a narrow circle, not everyone understands)” Nurmagomedov concluded. (Translation via Google Translate)

Khabib Nurmagomedov demands Islam Makhachev vs. Charles Oliveira for the lightweight title

After the Brazilian Charles Oliveira defeated Justin Gaethje at UFC 274, ‘The Eagle’ asked UFC president Dana White for a fight between his protégé Islam Makhachev and the former champion Oliveira for the vacant 155lbs title.

Nurmagomedov wrote on Twitter, “Is there really a more interesting duel in the UFC at the moment than Islam vs. Charles? Just bring these fighters to Abu Dhabi on October 22nd. Let the undisputed champion be determined.”

Ever since he retired from professional fighting, ‘The Eagle’ has been training his long-time friend Islam Makhachev for his lightweight career in the UFC. Backed by the lightweight G.O.A.T, Makhachev has drastically improved his performance inside the cage.

ALSO READ: Greatest Fighters Of All Time- Khabib Nurmagomedov Reveals Who’s On His List

Makhachev (22-1) has won his previous four bouts via a finish. Moreover, he is currently on a ten-fight undefeated streak. However, he is yet to fight for the lightweight title in his career.

Hence, after such a good run in the promotion, Nurmagomedov desperately wants a title fight for his teammate. And ultimately see him lift the gold strap. Do you guys think Makhachev can get a title shot next? What are your thoughts on Nurmagomedov’s message? Let us know in the comments below.