How Khabib’s father predicted the future of the lightweight division after his retirement
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Khabib Nurmagomedov and his father (Image Courtesy - ESPN)
Khabib Nurmagomedov decided to hang his gloves at the peak of his career with an undefeated record inside the Octagon. This left many surprised because people believed that there was no one in the lightweight division that could potentially beat the eagle.
While the retirement comes as a surprise to many, his late father Abdulmanap had already planned the former’s retirement. Abdulmanap wanted Khabib to step away from the sport at the very top of his game with an unbeaten record, and so he did, honoring his late father’s wish.
How Nurmagomedov’s father felt about his son retiring
In a video dating back to October 2019, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov spoke about what would happen when his son retires from the sport. Abdulmanap revealed that Khabib retiring early was always part of the plan. He added that he knows that one day, every great champion has to fall as talented, young, and hungrier guys keep coming up from time to time, hungry for glory.
“I think Islam can beat anyone. He’s younger, hungrier, and he should take Khabib’s place. That way I solidify my coaching abilities. So Khabib retires and another champion emerges who’s also my student.” He added, while talking about Islam Makhachev. Makhachev, was Khabib’s teammate and a fellow UFC lightweight who also happened to be Abdulmanap’s trainee. Abdulmanap felt that Makhachev could one day replace Khabib as the lightweight champion.
While it remains to be seen if Makhachev indeed has what it takes to make it big, one thing is for certain. Khabib leaves behind a legacy that’s unmatched and possibly one of the greatest there is.
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