Khabib Nurmagomedov strangles Justin Gaethje unconscious to keep the title and announces his resignation after the death of his father and coach.
UFC superstar Khabib Nurmagomedov has announced his retirement after defeating Justin Gaethje to successfully defend his easy title and keep his perfect record.
The undefeated 32-year-old mixed martial artist from Dagestan, Russia collapsed in the center of the octagon and sobbed after choking his American opponent unconscious at UFC 254 on Saturday.
When he got up he took off his gloves and left them on the mat.
“This will be my last fight in the UFC,” he said.
His father and trainer, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, died in July as a result of COVID-19.
This one was for Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov 🏆 pic.twitter.com/ZZdywrlE5e
– UFC (@ufc) October 24, 2020
Nurmagomedov said in the post-fight interview that he spoke to his mother for three days before deciding to take on the fight against Gaethje on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.
“There is no way I will come back without my father. I talked to my mother. She doesn’t know how I fight without a father, but I promised it would be my last fight and if I give my word I have to follow it. “
The American kicked the champion troubled but succumbed to a triangular thrush in the second round when Nurmagomedov cemented his claim to be the most dominant MMA fighter of all time with a 29-0 record.
After Nurmagomedov announced his victory and resignation, celebrations and honors broke out on social media.
Congratulations to the greatest champion in @ufc history. What a career, we are forever grateful for the time we have to spend with you my brother. 29-0 undefeated and undisputed. #weareaka #eaglesmma #fathersplan #heissoproud @TeamKhabib pic.twitter.com/uXjiT34JuV
– Daniel Cormier (@dc_mma) October 24, 2020
I would like to congratulate Khabib on an outstanding career. I know that he made his father incredibly proud today along with millions of fans around the world. May God continue to bless him on his journey.
– BONY (@JonnyBones) October 24, 2020
Good performance @TeamKhabib.
I will continue.
Respect and condolences to your father again. For you and your family.
Sincerely, The McGregors.
– Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) October 24, 2020
Unreal. One of the greatest performances I’ve ever seen. 🙏🏼 #KhabibTime
– Dan Hardy (@danhardymma) October 24, 2020
If it really is the end, thank you @TeamKhabib. You, your inheritance, and your father will live in MMA history forever. Actions that were out of control meant I left FI early, but I watched from home like a true fan of MMA. Thank you for your contribution, congratulations, and happy retirement.
– Marc Goddard (@marcgoddard_uk) October 24, 2020
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