“Woman is Weaker, Man is Stronger” – Khabib Nurmagomedov Stirs Controversy Again With Opinion on Women’s Fighting

Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov reveals why he is not a fan of women's role in combat sports.

“Woman is Weaker, Man is Stronger” – Khabib Nurmagomedov Stirs Controversy Again With Opinion on Women’s Fighting

Khabib Nurmagomedov stirs controversy (via Heavy Sports)

In Short
  • Khabib Nurmagomedov has reiterated his controversial views against women competing in MMA, citing traditional gender roles.
  • His comments have drawn criticism and sparked debate within the MMA community regarding women's participation in the sport.
  • Nurmagomedov continues to influence the sport as a coach and promoter, shaping the future of fighters in MMA.

Khabib Nurmagomedov was one of the most dominant lightweight champions, rarely losing rounds and never bleeding inside the cage during his tenure. His grappling-heavy style set him apart. However, his public comments have often sparked controversy, especially around women’s MMA. Nurmagomedov recently reinforced those views by explaining why he does not support women competing in the sport.

Nurmagomedov hails from Dagestan, a region in Russia’s North Caucasus known for its combat sports culture and deep-rooted traditions. The area has produced many elite wrestlers and fighters, shaping their disciplined and relentless approach to MMA and competition today. Nurmagomedov has often indicated that his views are influenced by long-standing customs and cultural values in the region.

Ever since retiring in 2020 with a submission win over Justin Gaethje, Nurmagomedov has become a full-time coach. He has also appeared at forums as a motivational speaker and guest figure. Notably, he was involved with the Sun Hills Development Conference, which partnered with him to build a specialized gym. During the event, a female real estate agent asked for his views on women’s MMA development.

Every person in life has a mission. For a man, it’s to raise children, take care of the family, take care of loved ones. There are very few women who take on big responsibilities. It’s very hard for them. It’s not without reason. God created it this way: A woman is weaker, a man is stronger. People want to change and mix all of this. I don’t know how you feel about it, but I like when a man does men’s work, and a woman does women’s work.

Khabib Nurmagomedov via Sun Hills Development

Nurmagomedov has consistently maintained a firm stance on the role of women in society, often expressing strict and traditional views. His position has led to controversy on multiple occasions over the years. Notably, he drew attention when he declined to shake hands with popular broadcaster Kate Scott during an appearance on the CBS Sports coverage of a Premier League match, drawing criticism.

Nurmagomedov was also at the center of attention in 2021 when he criticized the role of ring girls in MMA, calling them unnecessary and a distraction. After rebranding Gorilla FC into Eagle FC, he confirmed the promotion would not feature them. His comments drew backlash across the MMA community, with figures like UFC champion Valentina Shevchenko defending the role while others labeled his stance sexist.

More recently, Sean Strickland also faced scrutiny for questioning the credibility of women’s MMA, though he expressed his stance in far more explicit terms. Khabib Nurmagomedov continues to shape his post-fighting future as a coach and promoter, working closely with fighters and expanding his role through Eagle FC. Even in retirement, his opinions remain a topic of discussion within MMA circles.

Dana White praises Khabib Nurmagomedov’s “Fighter Factory” producing elite talent

Following his retirement, Khabib Nurmagomedov has inspired a new generation of fighters, including Islam Makhachev, who has become a two-division champion in the UFC. His cousin, Usman Nurmagomedov, has captured the PFL lightweight title. His dominance inside the cage has motivated many athletes who have openly credited ‘The Eagle’ for influencing their careers and success in MMA.

Dana White accused of making mistakes to bring back Khabib Nurmagomedov
Dana White accused of making mistakes to bring back Khabib Nurmagomedov (via MMA Fighting)

UFC CEO Dana White has consistently expressed appreciation for Nurmagomedov, often describing him as one of the greatest fighters to have a major cultural impact on MMA. He has frequently highlighted the Dagestani legend’s influence beyond competition. More recently, White praised his efforts in shaping the sport through a disciplined training system and effective techniques.

Any of those guys that are coming out of those ‘Stans’ right now are really [tough] in boxing too, not just in MMA. Khabib Nurmagomedov literally has a factory of badass dudes where they just keep pumping these guys out, and there are so many of them you couldn’t possibly get all these guys fights.

Dana White via FOX Sports AUS

Dana White recently reflected on the legacy of Khabib Nurmagomedov and his family, crediting their system for producing elite fighters. He highlighted Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov‘s role in building a disciplined foundation that continues to shape champions like Islam Makhachev. White’s remarks underline how their system remains influential in developing top-tier MMA talent.

Also Read: