Khabib Nurmagomedov took to Instagram to post a message for his fans. “The Eagle” seemingly teased his imminent UFC return in a rather philosophical post.
Nurmagomedov retired after UFC 254 in October, after successfully defending his lightweight gold against Justin Gaethje, in an incredible performance. Many touted that might be the end of the Russian’s UFC career. But, it seems we might have a return on our hands.
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“From the high-mountainous village of Dagestan, where people worked in the summer to survive in the winter. In any field, be it medicine, sports or study, we should always set higher goals, just be the best in everything and everywhere,” is the English transcript of Nurmagomedov’s message in Russian.
Now, with the words “higher goals” it seems to be a real possibility that we might see Nurmagomedov back in the Octagon some time in 2021. With his arch-rival Conor McGregor looking to get another shot at him, that fight can certainly be on the cards.
A motivated McGregor returns this month at UFC 257 to fight Dustin Poirier in an exciting lightweight bout. Given the Irishman gets past the Louisiana native, we might see a rematch of the biggest fight in UFC history.
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Khabib Nurmagomedov endured a difficult 2020
Nurmagomedov lost his father Abdulmanap in 2020 due to coronavirus. This was a big blow to the Russian, considering his close bond with his father. This prompted his retirement decision at UFC 254.
But at only 32, Nurmagomedov is just too young to retire from the sport yet. Considering his dominance and also his father’s wish to see him reach 30-0 professional, it looks like a return is a major possibility right now.
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What do you make of Nurmagomedov’s message on social media? Will “The Eagle” end his hiatus from the sport?