WATCH: Soccer Star Zlatan Ibrahimovic Stuns Khabib Nurmagomedov With Cheeky Answer During Arm-Wrestling

Former UFC lightweight champion and Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov meets soccer giant Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

WATCH: Soccer Star Zlatan Ibrahimovic Stuns Khabib Nurmagomedov With Cheeky Answer During Arm-Wrestling

Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Khabib Nurmagomedov arm wrestle each other (via Instagram)

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Other than being a combat sports legend, Khabib Nurmagomedov is also a lifelong soccer fan with a deep passion. The fighter followed soccer throughout childhood and was frequently seen playing casually with teammates during training camps. Thanks to global fame, Nurmagomedov regularly meets elite football icons across Europe at major sporting events.

Recently, Khabib Nurmagomedov and Zlatan Ibrahimovic shared a playful arm wrestling session that quickly went viral online. The lighthearted interaction highlighted mutual respect and friendly rivalry between the retired UFC champion and legendary soccer superstar.

Videos showed both stars sitting across a table, locking hands, laughing, joking, and clearly enjoying the moment together. During the exchange, Nurmagomedov asked Zlatan, “What do you feel?” prompting a cheeky, but confident response from the AC Milan legend. 

Ibrahimovic replied, ”I feel spirit,” instantly becoming the standout quote representing his incredible confident personality. The meeting was not limited to arm wrestling, as footage confirmed a relaxed social gathering between sporting icons. Photos revealed that World Cup winner Paul Pogba was also present, adding more star power to the memorable crossover moment. 

Before the contest, the group shared a meal, exchanged laughs, and posed together for cameras during the friendly meetup session. This was not their first interaction, as Khabib Nurmagomedov previously met Zlatan Ibrahimovic at football events, including AC Milan matches.

The UFC legend has publicly called Ibrahimovic a “special man” and brother, revealing admiration extending far beyond ordinary fandom. Those earlier meetings also impressed his cousin, Umar Nurmagomedov, who highlighted Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s mentality and mindset as elite. Ibrahimovic has been a long-time fan of combat sports and MMA, having trained in taekwondo himself. 

His training gave him the flexibility and mentality to become one of the most prolific strikers in soccer history. Back in 2019, Ibra had also predicted the iconic fight between Khabib Nurmagomedov and the ‘Notorious’ Conor McGregor. His prediction was on point as the ‘Eagle’ took down McGregor and dominated him via ground and pound, and ultimately submitted him. 

The retired Swedish footballer has attended several UFC events and openly shown support for elite fighters across divisions. The football icon has publicly backed Khamzat Chimaev and praised his aggressive fighting style and mentality. He has also met ‘Borz’ in person, and both share mutual respect and a strong relationship.

Khabib Nurmagomedov chooses his soccer GOAT 

Growing up, Khabib Nurmagomedov regularly followed soccer and has repeatedly expressed admiration for elite clubs, especially Real Madrid. His deep football knowledge often surprises fans as he confidently discusses players’ tactics, big matches, and historical moments during interviews.

Khabib Nurmagomedov chooses his soccer GOAT 
Khabib Nurmagomedov chooses his soccer GOAT (via X) 

Last year, Nurmagomedov attended the UEFA Champions League final supporting Paris Saint-Germain and celebrating soccer’s biggest stage in person. The UFC legend was seen inside the stadium, taking pictures, meeting players, and soaking in the atmosphere alongside soccer royalty.

Close friend and welterweight champion Islam Makhachev was also present, sharing the special football experience with Nurmagomedov proudly. The fighter has also taken part in the age-old Lionel Messi vs. Cristiano Ronaldo debate and shared his opinion. 

Messi or Ronaldo? You guys know I’m Real Madrid and Ronaldo fan… but Messi won everything.

Khabib Nurmagomedov via an interview

Khabib Nurmagomedov has long preferred Cristiano Ronaldo for unmatched dedication, work ethic, and relentless pursuit of greatness. The two legends have met on several occasions, with their iconic meeting in Manchester featuring a playful face-off. Ronaldo is also a massive combat sports fan, regularly attending major boxing events in Saudi Arabia, showing admiration for fighters and fighting culture.

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