KUALA LUMPUR – Many mixed-martial-arts fans would have pictured Khabib "The Eagle" Nurmagomedov's retirement in a Las Vegas or Russian stadium filled with chanting fans, after facing off a formidable opponent like Tony Ferguson or George Saint-Pierre.
However, Khabib retired today at UFC 254 after beating Justin "The Highlight" Gaethje in an empty arena located in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
It is understood that the Dagestani made the decision to retire after the death of his father, who happens to also be his long time coach.
After the referee stopped the fight while Khabib was suffocating Justin, Khabib released the American and ordered his celebrating cornerman to quiet down as he got down on his knees and wept.
Khabib later explained during his post-fight speech that he promised his mother that this would be his last bout.
Although the sambo-based fighter submitted Justin in the second round, the latter proved to be a formidable opponent for the undefeated champ.
Justin made attempts to stay off the edge of the cage, an area in which any fighter facing Khabib knows is dangerous territory.
An attempt by Khabib to take down Justin was also defended well by him – very much owed to his previous collegiate wrestling background.
And of course, Justin's striking power was displayed with numerous overhands when Khabib's stance was lowered.
However, Justin's explosive wrestling abilities were no match for Khabib's takedown abilities as the Dagestani managed to get a hold of him.
With his wrestling reactions triggered, Justin did what many in the sport know is a risky move - he gave up his back.
It is common for wrestlers to get on all fours, and give up their backs in wrestling because points are scored when the opponent is managed to be placed on his back.
Further, while Khabib grappled, Justin made minimal attempts to defend his position, which resulted in a successful triangle-choke attempt by Khabib – sealing the Dagestani's name as probably the best fighter in the sport.
While his retirement is truly a loss to the sport, especially so because many fans are hoping he would face McGregor or Tony Ferguson – keep in mind that many fighters do come back into the Octagon. So we would just have to wait and see - The Vibes, October 25, 2020
