Khabib Nurmagomedov shuts door on UFC return with honest message about fight life
Although it has been nearly five years since Khabib Nurmagomedov's last battle, the unbeaten UFC great still has followers hoping he may return to the cage. Following a strong victory over Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 in October 2020, the Russian superstar stopped down.
At 32, he was at his height. Since then, talk of a comeback has never gone away. But now, after a recent interview on July 27, 2025, Khabib has made it clearer than ever why stepping back into the Octagon is no longer possible for him.
Khabib Nurmagomedov says very long training needed for return
Speaking on The Hustle Show in an interview aired on July 27, 2025, Khabib Nurmagomedov explained that a return to fighting would take much more than a few weeks of practice. He said, 'Two or three months wouldn't be enough.
I'll be 37 in September.' According to him, getting ready for an actual fight would take at least six months of full focus and strict routine.
— alkassenglish (@alkassenglish)
Khabib explained that many people look at fighters and think they're ready just by how fit they look. But that's not how it works. He stated that what actually counts is the number of sparring rounds you have completed and the standard of your sparring opponents.
He also said that when he fought, his life was totally focused, no travel, no additional activities, six days a week of morning and evening training and rest on Sunday.
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He made it very evident that cardio or weight training do not get you ready for an actual fight.
Khabib Nurmagomedov remains committed to coaching his team
On October 24, 2020, Khabib triangled Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 in Abu Dhabi to defend his UFC lightweight title for the third time in his career. After the fight, he retired in the cage, fulfilling a promise he made to his mother after losing his father and lifelong coach Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov.
He's now concentrating on coaching.
He works closely with Islam Makhachev, current UFC lightweight champion, as well as his cousins Umar and Usman Nurmagomedov. Khabib has firmly said there is 'no chance—not even one percent' of a comeback and even turns down wrestling or grappling match offers.
Also Read:
Conor McGregor Fires Back At Khabib Nurmagomedov In Deleted Post As UFC Feud Resurfaces
FAQs
1. Will Khabib Nurmagomedov ever fight in UFC again?
No, Khabib says there's 'no chance' he'll return to the UFC or fight again.
2. Why did Khabib Nurmagomedov retire so early?
He retired in 2020 to honor a promise to his mother after his father passed away.
3. Is Khabib Nurmagomedov still involved in MMA?
Yes, Khabib now coaches fighters like Islam Makhachev and Usman Nurmagomedov.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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