UFC’s biggest ‘What If’ Dagestani fighter confirms Dana White and team did everything in power to bring him back

Zabit Magomedsharipov left the UFC with an undefeated record in the promotion and has not fought since 2019.

UFC’s biggest ‘What If’ Dagestani fighter confirms Dana White and team did everything in power to bring him back

Zabit Magomedsharipov talks about his negotiations with Dana White and UFC (via Imago)

Zabit Magomedsharipov is undoubtedly the greatest what-if in the history of mixed martial arts, specifically in the UFC. The fighter left the sport in the prime of his career, as he was on his way to get the featherweight title opportunity. Recently, he talked about his multiple conversations with Dana White after his retirement.

Zabit Magomedsharipov had five fights in the UFC. However, Magomedsharipov then decided to leave the sport, which shocked a lot of fans. In his brief time in the promotion, he showed incredible potential, and fans wanted the UFC to bring him back. As it turns out, the promotion did their best and offered good money to the fighter. However, ‘ZaBeast’ had no intention of fighting.

They promised me a lot of things, but that’s not the point… I have no desire to return. And it’s not about money. Whatever they offer me I don’t think I will ever come back.
Zabit Magomedsharipov via Red Corner MMA 
YouTube video

Recently, Magomedsharipov went viral for sharing training footage, which raised anticipation among fight fans. The fighter in the interview revealed that he likes to train and help his brothers, but he isn’t motivated. The Dagestani is close to Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov. According to the ‘Eagle’, there is a possibility of Magomedsharipov returning in the future. 

FS Video

Previously, Magomedsharipov attacked the UFC for breaking their commitment and mistreating him. However, the promotion has done its best to redeem itself. According to the fighter, the UFC had often urged him to come to the United States for a meeting, but he had always refused. He didn’t want to commit to the UFC if it meant he couldn’t do it in the future.

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Dana White invited Zabit Magomedsharipov to Las Vegas in order to negotiate a potential return 

Zabit Magomedsharipov was one of the most creative fighters to ever step into the octagon. The Abraham Lincoln-looking Russian was very entertaining to watch, and fans loved his dynamic striking. Other than that, Magomedsharipov had an incredible ground game. During his stint in the UFC, he finished his opponents in some of the most unique submission holds.

Zabit Magomedsharipov
Zabit Magomedsharipov (via X)

Last year, in an interview, Magomedsharipov’s manager, Rizvan Magomedov, talked about Dana White asking the fighter to come to Las Vegas. According to the manager, the fighter refused the invitation as he didn’t have any desire to fight. Magomedsharipov also had some health problems during his fighting days, and after the break, he has gotten better. 

Recently, Magomedsharipov’s younger brother went viral for his performance at Bellator. Khasan Magomedsharipov’s crisp striking gave fight fans a hint of his brother. Even years after his early retirement, fans still reminisce about the fighter and his skills. Nevertheless, only time will tell if he ever returns to MMA again.

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