MMA manager Ali Abdelaziz took to Twitter and spoke out on a recent rumor being covered by the Russian media. The reports detailed that UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov was expected to retire from active competition. Abdelaziz used his social media platform to debunk these reports and assured fans of Khabib’s presence.
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Some of the Russian media reported I said Khabib is retired. This is absolutely false. Khabib is grieving with his father passing away. I want everyone to be respectful to the situation and don’t give fake news.
— Ali Abdelaziz (@AliAbdelaziz00) July 11, 2020
The news mills have circulated following the death of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. He was an empowering figure in The Eagles’ life and built the champion’s skills. Nurmagomedov Sr had been a lifelong trainer for Khabib Nurmagomedov, and it showed through his dominance in the cage.
The contributions made by Nurmagomedov Sr have elevated the status of MMA worldwide. Additionally, his departure has left a void within the Region of Russian that has impacted the people. The MMA community was quick to express their gratitude for his contributions to the sport.
Khabib Nurmagomedov: Where does he go from here?
Following his father’s ill-fated battle with COVID-19 and issues related to it, several questions surround the undefeated champion. However, his consideration as being one of the best fighters on the planet has never been in question, primarily because the 155-pound king has the longest active win streak in his weight class.
Khabib Nurmagomedov last stepped inside the cage in a title unification bout against Dustin Poirier. The highly touted bout occurred at UFC 242 in Abu Dhabi back in September 2019. The global pandemic has altered the timeline of the undisputed king’s return.
A new top challenger has emerged in the division in the form of former collegiate wrestling ace Justin Gaethje. ‘The Highlight’ has captured the interim 155-pound title following a landmark victory over Tony Ferguson. Chiefly ‘El Cucuy’ has been the bogeyman of the division and was on a 12-fight tear.
Moreover, fight fans expect ‘The Eagle’ to possibly return under the bright lights somewhere in September against Justin Gaethje. Given the current circumstances, it is entirely understandable how that scenario is unlikely to play out. Additionally, the lightweight division has been churning out deadly contenders with each passing month.
