Fact Check: Is khabib retired?

Is Khabib Retired?

Khabib Nurmagomedov, a former UFC lightweight champion, has been a prominent figure in mixed martial arts (MMA) since his retirement from fighting in October 2020. Recently, there have been claims regarding his potential retirement from coaching, raising questions about whether he is stepping away from the sport entirely. This article explores these claims and the current status of Khabib's involvement in MMA.

What We Know

1. Retirement from Fighting: Khabib Nurmagomedov officially retired from competitive fighting after his victory over Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 on October 24, 2020. He cited a promise to his mother not to continue fighting following the death of his father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, earlier that year [6].

2. Coaching Career: Since retiring from fighting, Khabib has transitioned into a coaching role, training fighters in his gym, AKA (American Kickboxing Academy) in San Jose, California. He has been particularly involved in coaching fighters like Islam Makhachev, who is currently a top contender in the lightweight division [6][8].

3. Recent Statements: In January 2025, Khabib made headlines by discussing his future in coaching. Reports indicate that he has hinted at a potential retirement from coaching, suggesting he may step back from MMA altogether [4][6][8]. However, the specifics of his timeline and the implications of such a retirement are still unclear.

4. Current Involvement: As of now, Khabib remains active in the MMA community, particularly as a coach, and has expressed intentions to continue supporting his fighters in upcoming events, including UFC 311 [6][8].

Analysis

The claims surrounding Khabib's retirement from coaching and the sport of MMA are based on recent interviews and reports. The sources discussing these claims vary in reliability and potential bias:

• Forbes: The article from Forbes discusses Khabib's coaching career and his hints at retirement. Forbes is generally considered a reputable source, known for its business-oriented journalism. However, the article's focus on Khabib's coaching retirement may reflect a sensationalist angle, as it aims to attract readers interested in the latest news from a high-profile athlete [6].

• MMA Weekly: This source reported on Khabib's statements regarding his retirement, framing them as a "bombshell." While MMA Weekly is a recognized outlet in the MMA community, its sensationalist language may skew the perception of Khabib's actual intentions, which are not fully detailed in the report [4].

• Essentially Sports: This outlet also covered Khabib's comments on retirement, emphasizing the timeline he provided. Essentially Sports is less established than Forbes or MMA Weekly, which raises questions about its editorial standards and the depth of its reporting [8].

• MMA Fighting: The report from MMA Fighting provides context on Khabib's coaching and his potential retirement timeline. This outlet is known for its comprehensive coverage of MMA and is generally regarded as reliable, though it can also engage in sensationalism to attract readership [2].

Conflicts of Interest and Methodology

While the sources cited provide valuable information, it is important to consider potential conflicts of interest. For instance, outlets that focus heavily on MMA may have a vested interest in promoting narratives that generate buzz, which can lead to exaggerated claims about Khabib's intentions. Additionally, the methodology behind the reporting—such as reliance on quotes and interpretations—can impact the accuracy and clarity of the information presented.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The evidence indicates that Khabib Nurmagomedov is indeed retired from competitive fighting and is currently contemplating a retirement from coaching. Key evidence supporting this conclusion includes Khabib's official retirement announcement in October 2020, his ongoing coaching role, and recent statements suggesting he may step back from coaching. However, the specifics of his potential retirement timeline remain ambiguous, and he continues to be involved in the MMA community.

It is important to note that while the reports provide insight into Khabib's current status, they also reflect varying degrees of sensationalism and potential bias. The reliability of the sources varies, and some may exaggerate Khabib's statements to attract readership. Therefore, while the conclusion that Khabib is retired is supported by evidence, the nuances of his future involvement in MMA are still uncertain.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate the information presented and consider the context and potential biases of the sources when forming their own conclusions.

Sources

1. Vente immobilière via agence + le bon coin - Forum Que Choisir. Link
2. Morning Report: Khabib Nurmagomedov gives estimate on when he expects to retire from coaching. MMA Fighting. Link
3. Pratique du bon coin. - Vente en ligne - Forum Que Choisir. Link
4. Khabib Nurmagomedov makes shocking retirement claim. MMA Weekly. Link
5. Le Bon Coin et prix imposés par Apple - Forum Que Choisir. Link
6. Khabib Nurmagomedov Has Coaching Retirement In Sight Ahead Of UFC 311. Forbes. Link
7. Compte le bon coin bloqué sans raison - Forum Que Choisir. Link
8. Khabib Nurmagomedov Drops Retirement Bombshell as Legend Makes Confession Before UFC 311. Essentially Sports. Link