Years have passed since UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov retired with a perfect 29-0 record, but the legendary presence he brought to the octagon is still unparalleled. When ‘The Eagle’ burst onto the UFC scene in January 2012, taking on Kamal Shalorus, he wasted no time making his mark in the lightweight division. His journey culminated in a triumphant victory over Al Iaquinta at UFC 223 in April 2018, where he claimed the UFC Lightweight Championship.

However, even in dominance, controversy followed. Critics questioned Khabib Nurmagomedov’s choice to retire early at 32. His final fight at UFC 254 against Justin Gaethje ended in a second-round triangle choke, but notably, it was also the first—and only—time the Russian powerhouse competed without his late father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, in his corner. With tears in his eyes, his post-fight speech made one thing clear: the reign of the undefeated champion had come to an end.

Over the course of his UFC career, Khabib Nurmagomedov faced elite competition, including Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier, never shying away from a challenge. Yet, despite his mother’s pleas and fans clamoring for a rematch with McGregor, he stayed true to his decision—fueling debates among fighters and fans alike. Most recently, two-time bantamweight champion Dominick Cruz weighed in during an interview with Demetrious Johnson, taking a pointed jab at ‘The Eagle’’s choice.

“Are you really done?” Dominick Cruz continued. “Or did you just stop right before you knew the challenge was coming for you? That’s my question to anybody who’s got a perfect record. Oh, yeah. I mean, if you have a perfect record, it’s just—that’s the question. Stay in until you’re not. Yeah. Why? Why wouldn’t you stay in until you’re not perfect? Because everybody has a time when they’re going to lose eventually.”

As soon as the clip hit Reddit, the MMA community erupted. Fans didn’t hold back—dropping raw, unfiltered takes, dissecting every word.

Dominick Cruz sparks backlash targeting Khabib Nurmagomedov’s undefeated legacy

In 2010, when the UFC brought WEC into the fold, Dominick Cruz stepped up to claim the title of the first UFC Bantamweight Champion, showcasing his skills by defending his championship against top-tier fighters such as Urijah Faber. Even with a career marked by significant injury setbacks, including several knee surgeries, Cruz has consistently bounced back to showcase his incredible skills. Fans are always treated to his signature footwork, sharp striking, and strategic brilliance in the ring.

Moreover, his resilience and style even became a source of inspiration for Khabib Nurmagomedov, who has frequently cited Cruz as a role model. However, Dominick Cruz found himself at odds with the Russian standout’s fanbase during UFC 229. While commentating the high-profile Conor vs. Khabib bout, ‘The Dominator’ repeatedly suggested that McGregor was attempting to wear down the Dagestani powerhouse.

As a result, the remarks drew immediate backlash, with one fan labeling Dominick Cruz “Khabib’s biggest hater,” and another writing, “What a moron.” Over time, Cruz’s commentary has remained polarizing. In his latest remarks, some fans even accused him of undermining Khabib Nurmagomedov, with one commenting, “He’s like a Karen. Brian Stann is what Dom Cruz would be if he wasn’t insufferable.” Supporters have defended ‘The Eagle’s retirement decision, highlighting the financial realities of elite fighting.

‘The Dominator’ for his part, knows the toll fighting can take. Throughout his career, he faced several injuries that kept him out of action for two to four years at a time. In his own words, taking extended breaks isn’t just necessary—it’s a bold decision that empowers fighters to focus on recovery and prolong their careers in a sport that’s as tough as it is relentless.

At UFC 229, Nurmagomedov reportedly earned roughly $6.64 million, including a $2 million base salary. Furthermore, despite being offered between $30–40 million by Dana White and the UFC to continue competing, Khabib Nurmagomedov opted to retire, turning his focus to opening a gym in Makhachkala. Fans praised the move, with one noting, “Better to retire and have people ask why instead of trying to continue and have people ask why you haven’t retired,” and another adding, “Honestly. Getting out before taking too much damage is smart.”

In the end, Khabib Nurmagomedov’s choice embodies a mindset famously captured by Conor McGregor: step in, cash in, and step out. Do you believe the Russian powerhouse made the best decision by stepping back early? We want to hear what you think! Drop your thoughts in the comments below.