UFC 254 was always going to produce big headlines, but not too many people saw this one coming. Khabib Nurmagomedov has retired from the sport of MMA.
The Russian UFC lightweight champion retained his title with a second-round triangle choke submission of Justin Gaethje in the main event on Fight Island, then surprised the world by revealing his decision to retire with immediate effect.
Many of us thought there was a strong chance he’d call it a day if and when he reached 30-0, especially after the passing of his father, coach and mentor, Abdulmanap, earlier this year. But he opted to do it one fight early. His reason was a simple one – he promised his mum.
With the dust still settling on the event – and with my fingers taking a rest after covering the fight for BBC Sport in England and RT Sport in Russia – I decided to jump behind the mic to record a bonus reaction pod as I share my thoughts on Khabib’s retirement, look back at his UFC career and consider the legacy he leaves behind.
Hope you enjoy it. We’ll be back as a duo for our usual weekly show.
Cheers,
Simon
PS: If I sound knackered, it’s because I am :)
Bonus Pod: Reacting to Khabib Nurmagomedov's retirement at UFC 254