Khabib Nurmagomedov’s UFC legacy will forever be defined by his rivalry with Conor McGregor. The bad blood between the lightweight contenders captured the imagination of MMA fans worldwide and culminated in one of the most iconic fights in UFC history at UFC 229 in 2018. Follow UFC News Updates with Insidesport.IN
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Khabib Nurmagoedov’s Retirement
While Nurmagomedov came out on top by submitting McGregor in the fourth round, When Nurmagomedov officially announced his retirement from MMA in October 2020 following a successful title defense over Justin Gaethje, McGregor reacted on social media with a mixture of congratulations, pride and bitterness.
In an Instagram post, McGregor wrote “Never forget who came in the game and made ye. Straight from my big Irish balls. Remember folks, if you hate cutting weight so much, all you have to do is move up a division. God bless.”
While acknowledging Nurmagomedov’s accomplishments, McGregor’s words highlighted his belief that he put Khabib “on the map” when they fought. His suggestion that Khabib move up a weight class to avoid tough weight cuts also indicated McGregor’s hope for a rematch.
However, in a recent Netflix documentary, McGregor’s reaction to the news of Khabib’s retirement appeared more solemn.
The footage showed McGregor watching Khabib’s submission win over Gaethje, expecting a potential rematch was on the horizon.
But when Nurmagomedov announced his decision to walk away from the sport following an emotional conversation with his mother, McGregor sat in silent reflection.
Without any bravado or boasting, McGregor’s face registered disappointment that the rivalry had come to an end without a rematch ever materializing.
To UFC President Dana White, who was hoping to book a blockbuster McGregor vs. Nurmagomedov rematch, Khabib’s retirement came as a major disappointment. However, for McGregor, beyond the business of MMA, Khabib’s choice to leave the sport on his own terms appeared to command a grudging respect. Though their rivalry was intense and bitter, McGregor’s honest reaction suggests he recognized an competitor worthy of admiration in his nemesis, Khabib Nurmagomedov. Follow InsideSport on GOOGLE NEWS / For UFC News updates with InsideSport.IN
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