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Khabib Nurmagomedov Explains Why MMA Coaching Is One Of The 'Most Important Things' In His Life Now: 'Before I Become 40...'

Originally posted on MMA News | By Curtis Calhoun | Last updated 3/4/24

UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov is passionate about turning some of the most talented fighters in the world into phenoms.

Nurmagomedov retired from his legendary fighting career in 2020 after a win over Justin Gaethje at UFC 254. He cited the tragic death of his father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, as a leading reason for his decision to walk away.

Nurmagomedov has remained firm on his promise to his mother to stay retired. While UFC President Dana White has flirted with bringing him back for an Octagon return, Nurmagomedov hasn't dictated from his chosen path.

After retiring, Nurmagomedov has coached some top UFC fighters, including UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev and surging welterweight Belal Muhammad.

In 2023, Nurmagomedov announced that he would leave MMA entirely, including with coaching. But, he's since pivoted on that stance and remains a main coach for many big-name fighters.

Khabib Nurmagomedov Opens Up On Passion For MMA Coaching

During a recent Q&A session in Canada, Nurmagomedov was asked to clarify where coaching lands in his hierarchy of priorities.

"It's not like I'm retired from coaching," Nurmagomedov said. "Sometimes I go to the gym, share my experience, with all of my brothers. It's not about 'I'm retiring from coaching', but with cornering, fight week, everything...I'm done. I'm still sharing my knowledge and experience...

"This is one of the most important things in my life right now before I become 40 because I still have things to share with them. Grappling, wrestling, some mental things. I still coach my brothers."

Nurmagomedov wouldn't specify if he intends to stop coaching at 40 years old, or if he'll continue in an advisory role for athletes in his gym.

Nurmagomedov is arguably one of the greatest fighters in UFC history; retiring with a perfect 29-0 record. He defeated the likes of Dustin Poirier, Conor McGregor, and Gaethje during his UFC tenure.

The cold, even-keeled Nurmagomedov rarely appears visibly fired up, but it's obvious that coaching remains a deep passion at this stage of his life.

This article first appeared on MMA News and was syndicated with permission.

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