“He Simply Stepped Aside”- Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Early Retirement Gets Honest Assessment From ONE Champion Anatoly Malykhin

UFC Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, known for his wrestling dominance and undefeated UFC record, cemented his legacy in 2020. After defeating Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 and achieving a perfect 29-0 record, he made a surprising retirement announcement.

However, this early departure from the sport sparked controversy. Many fans believed the passing of Nurmagomedov’s father played a significant role in his decision. Others offered different explanations. Recently, three-division ONE MMA World Champion Anatoly Malykhin added his voice to the conversation, sharing his insights into the possible reasons behind “The Eagle’s” early retirement during a YouTube MMA channel interview.

Anatoly Malykhin reflects on Khabib Nurmagomedov’s early retirement

In 2020, Khabib Nurmagomedov announced his retirement shortly after defeating Justin Gaethje. This early retirement sparked debate because “The Eagle” was still in his prime. Citing the passing of his father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, from COVID-19 complications and his mother’s wish for him to retire, Nurmagomedov stepped away from the sport. Five days ago, in an interview with the YouTube Channel Red Corner MMA, three-division ONE MMA World Champion Anatoly Malykhin offered a new perspective on Nurmagomedov’s retirement.

Notably, he expressed support for Khabib Nurmagomedov’s early retirement, acknowledging the disadvantages of fighting for too long as age affects the body and mind. Malykhin also admires Khabib’s self-awareness. He further added, “You know what I like about Khabib? When Islam Makhachv started winning, he simply stepped aside. He didn’t try to steal the spotlight. Khabib understood it was Islam’s time.”

Adding to this, Anatoly Malykhin isn’t the only one who admires Khabib’s decision to retire at the right time. The current ONE Flyweight World Champion, Demetrious Johnson, also shares this sentiment. In fact, Johnson even sought advice from Khabib about making the right retirement decision, despite still being active himself. Johnson revealed this after winning his fight at ONE Fight Night 10 in 2023.

Demetrious Johnson to legends for retirement advice

On May 5, 2023, Demetrious Johnson successfully defended his flyweight title against Adriano Moraes in their historic trilogy fight at ONE Fight Night 10. The bout took place at the 1stBank Center in Broomfield, Colorado. In a shocking turn of events after the fight, ” Mighty Mouse” addressed the audience, asking them if they wanted to see him compete in more fights. The entire arena erupted in cheers, leaving a palpable feeling of excitement.

However, Demetrious Johnson added that before making the decision to retire, he would first consult with his wife. He also revealed plans to consult with other MMA legends like George St-Pierre and Khabib Nurmagomedov, because, according to him, they retired at the perfect time and would be ideal people to talk to about this matter. He continued, “Taking to my peers, talking to Urijah Faber, I’m going to reach out to (Georges St-Pierre), I’m going to reach out to Khabib Nurmagomedov.”

Do you think Khabib Nurmagomedov retired too early? Comment with your thoughts below.