When 17-Year-Old Khabib Nurmagomedov Cried: UFC News: After defeating Justin Gaethje at UFC 254, Khabib Nurmagomedov made his permanent retirement from mixed martial arts in October 2020. Follow UFC News Updates with InsideSports.IN.
The Russian never ever received a scratch in 29 professional fights, much less tasted defeat; yet, his amateur career was not as spotless. Khabib lost against Magomed Ibragimov in the Russian Combat Sambo championship final at the age of 17.
17-Year-Old Khabib Nurmagomedov Cried After Losing Sambo Fight
Khabib began practising judo at the age of 15 after growing up wrestling and learning the techniques from his late father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov.
The youth met his match in Ibragimov despite being a fantastic talent and a wonderfully gifted athlete.
In fact, the fight nearly got out of hand as the two fighters even exchanged blows. Unfortunately, Khabib’s dream was dashed as the outcome was revealed to be his first-ever loss, causing the Dagestan native to collapse to the ground and sob.
Magomed Ibragimov defeated 17-year-old Khabib in the finals of a Russian Combat Sambo match.
Despite a tough fight, the 20-year-old Ibragimov proved to be the future lightweight champion of the UFC.
When 17-Year-Old Khabib Nurmagomedov Cried After Losing Sambo Fight Before His UFC Career
The Dagestan tasted defeat for the first time and fell to the ground sobbing.
A triumphant Ibragimov displayed excellent sportsmanship by comforting and helping his visibly upset opponent to his feet after the fight.
Ibragimov, who later won bronze medals at the 2016 Olympics and the 2018 Asian Games, acted with dignity and grace while helping the child to his feet and comforting him.
Khabib, who is now 32 years old, has been rebuffed by the UFC despite Dana White’s best efforts, and the former lightweight champion has even hinted at a switch to professional football.
Instead, he focused on managing the Eagle Fighting Championship, his own MMA organisation that he acquired for $1 million after retiring.
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