“Ruin Entire Families”: Khabib Nurmagomedov Rejects $44 Billion Industry the UFC Thrives on for Ethical Reasons

UFC’s former lightweight champion, Khabib Nurmagomedov, runs his own promotion called Eagle FC. As a result, many personalities associated with the UFC are spotted at Eagle FC’s events. However, the Russian strives to make his promotion stand apart from others in the business.

In a new video on his YouTube channel, the athlete revealed his thoughts about sports betting. Nurmagomedov said, “We have plenty of good sponsors that we work with and put on events. We don’t need bookmakers.”

“I believe that gambling is more dangerous than alcohol. I think it’s worse to advertise bookmakers than alcohol.”

“Bookmakers ruin entire families,” added the undefeated athlete.

He further talked about young individuals getting addicted to betting. While ‘The Eagle’ is not interested in including bookmakers in his promotion, the UFC has done so.

As reported by ‘ESPN‘ in 2021, the UFC partnered with DraftKings for a massive 5-year deal. With this deal, the promotion increased its presence in the sports betting arena. As per their report, UFC President, Dana White, was excited about it, as it would increase fan engagement. Additionally, DraftKings would pay the promotion ‘low nine figures’.

Khabib Nurmagomedov on losing money

Sports betting is a huge industry and, as per ‘Forbes‘, the revenue gambling generates has been skyrocketing. In 2021, the industry made a revenue of more than $44 billion and has been the highest in the history of legal gambling.

However, Nurmagomedov made the decision to reject a massive source of income. The ex-UFC champion was aware of the amount of money he would be missing out on. But has always stood by his principles.

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He desires to offer a better product to his audience and wants to focus on developing the sport. He doesn’t intend to promote what he does not believe in.

Many fans were in awe of Nurmagomedov’s honor for the sport of mixed martial arts. Thus, they left thoughtful comments under his video.

What do you think about Nurmagomedov’s opinion on bookmakers?

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