Khabib Retires: After defeating Justin Gaethje at #UFC254, Khabib Nurmagomedov announced his retirement saying, “there’s no way I’m going to be back without my father.”

Khabib Nurmagomedov extended his perfect professional record to 29-0 with a submission win over Justin Gaethje, then announced his retirement from the sport, at UFC 254 on “Fight Island.”

Nurmagomedov, who was fighting for the first time since the tragic death of his father Abdulmanap earlier this summer following complications related to COVID-19, produced a superb display to finish UFC interim champion Gaethje early in the second round via triangle-choke submission to retain his title and extend his perfect professional record to 29-0.

And, after his victory, Nurmagomedov announced his retirement from the sport in an emotional post-fight interview.

Khabib said:

“Today, I want to say this is my last fight.

“When UFC called me about Justin, I spoke with my mother and I said I wouldn’t fight without father.

“And if I give my word, then I must follow it. UFC must make me No 1 pound for pound fighter in the world, because I deserve it.

“I want to say thank you to Lorenzo and Dana.

“All this UFC team, everybody, they made a great show.

“Thank you to Justin, thank you, brother. I know how you take care of your people. One day something will happen for you, you never know what is going to happen tomorrow.

“Today is my last fight here in the UFC.

"No way I'm going to come here without my father." #UFC254 pic.twitter.com/Mra46AIius

— UFC (@ufc) October 24, 2020

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A legacy like no other! Thank you @TeamKhabib #UFC254 pic.twitter.com/GGqpGjJluR

— UFC (@ufc) October 24, 2020

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Khabib Nurmagomedov Retires, says his #UFC254 victory was his FINAL fight

Khabib Retires: After defeating Justin Gaethje at #UFC254, Khabib Nurmagomedov announced his...