In the world of mixed martial arts, few names resonate as profoundly as Khabib Nurmagomedov. Known for his undefeated record and dominant performances inside the octagon, Khabib’s retirement in October 2020 left a significant void in the UFC lightweight division. Since then, fans and pundits alike have speculated on the possibility of his return. Recently, Coach Javier Mendez, who played a crucial role in shaping Khabib’s career, revealed intriguing details about the final time the Dagestani legend considered stepping back into the cage.
Khabib Nurmagomedov announced his retirement after his victory over Justin Gaethje at UFC 254. The decision was deeply personal, rooted in the promise he made to his mother following the death of his father and coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. “Today I want to say this is my last fight,” Khabib declared, leaving fans in shock. His departure from the sport was a significant moment, not just for the UFC, but for the broader world of combat sports.
Following his retirement, rumors about Khabib’s potential return never ceased. Dana White, the UFC President, made several attempts to lure the lightweight champion back, hinting at lucrative fight opportunities and the chance to cement his legacy even further. However, Khabib remained steadfast in his decision, focusing on his family, business ventures, and nurturing the next generation of fighters.
In a recent interview, Coach Javier Mendez, head coach at the American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) and a mentor to Khabib, shed light on the closest moment Khabib came to reconsidering his retirement. According to Mendez, there was indeed a time when the idea of returning to the octagon was on the table.
“Khabib is a warrior at heart, and the competitive fire never truly dies,” Mendez explained. “There was a moment when we discussed the possibility of one more fight. The allure of competition and the desire to continue his father’s legacy in the sport were strong motivators.”
Despite the temptation, Khabib ultimately decided to honor his promise to his mother and maintain his retirement. Mendez emphasized that this decision was not taken lightly and reflected Khabib’s deep commitment to his family and personal principles.
“He thought about it long and hard, but in the end, his respect for his mother and his late father’s wishes took precedence. Khabib is a man of his word, and that’s what makes him the person he is,” Mendez said.
Khabib’s legacy extends beyond his impressive 29-0 record. Since retiring, he has taken on the role of coach and promoter, guiding fighters like Islam Makhachev and Usman Nurmagomedov to success. His Eagle Fighting Championship (EFC) has also gained traction, providing a platform for emerging talent.
While fans may always wonder “what if,” it’s clear that Khabib Nurmagomedov’s legacy is secure, both inside and outside the octagon. Coach Javier Mendez’s revelation offers a glimpse into the mind of a champion, torn between the love of competition and the promises made to loved ones. For now, the Eagle remains retired, soaring high on the achievements of a remarkable career and the impact he continues to make in the world of MMA.
As the MMA community continues to evolve, Khabib’s influence is unmistakable, serving as a reminder of the integrity and honor that define a true champion.
