Khabib Defeats Justin Gaethje to Unify UFC Lightweight Belt Then Announces Retirement from UFC!
By Carlos Costa
PhilBoxing.com
Sun, 25 Oct 2020
Russian UFC Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov retained his title stopping American interim champ Justin Gaethje of Colorado in the 2nd round of their battle today at Fight Island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Khabib's victory was a perfectly executed technical submission done by a triangle choke that put Justin to sleep for a little while.
Time was 1:34 in round 2. After coming back to his senses, the American warrior was perfectly okay.
After his win, an emotional Khabib announced his retirement from fighting. "This has been my last fight," said the amazing Russian, who revealed that his retirement from the sport is a promised that he has made to his mother.
"It's because I can not fight without my father," said the 32 year-old Khabib born in Dagestan.
Khabib's dad and coach, Abdulmanap, died of Covid-19 3 and a half months ago.
Before leaving the octagon, Khabib had nice words about his opponent Justin. "I love you brother," Khabib said.
With tears in his eyes, probably the best UFC fighter in history, have left the sport that made him famous and admired, the sport that he has loved.
Khabib retires as undisputed UFC lightweight (155 pound) champion with an unbelievable perfect record of 29-0, one of the greatest careers in mixed martial arts.
The author Carlos Costa can be reached by email carlos512@hotmail.com and whatsapp +639285438152.
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Carlos Costa.
Recent PhilBoxing.com In-House articles:
Villarosa draws with Labajo, Enano wins
By Lito delos Reyes, Tue, 02 Sep 2025Suarez, Magsayo Reliving High Point in PH Boxing at Super Featherweights
By Teodoro Medina Reynoso, Tue, 02 Sep 2025Pacman back into full-time boxing
By Joaquin Henson, Tue, 02 Sep 2025Unbeaten Laurente Dominates Marapu to Capture IBF Pan-Pacific Lightweight Crown; Gaballo Wins in Co-Main Event
Tue, 02 Sep 2025Thunderdome 51 Review: Perth’s Joel Lewis claims title with stunning knockout
Tue, 02 Sep 2025Paulette Cuesta and Susy Kandy Sandoval Set for Highly Anticipated Rematch in Tijuana
Tue, 02 Sep 2025THE PAST WEEK IN ACTION 31 August 2025
By Eric Armit, Mon, 01 Sep 2025Gaballo, Laurente prevail in Gensan
By Lito delos Reyes, Mon, 01 Sep 2025Paalam leads ABAP team in Liverpool
By Joaquin Henson, Mon, 01 Sep 2025OKC Thunder Favored to Repeat as NBA Champs
By Teodoro Medina Reynoso, Mon, 01 Sep 2025Pacman sets ‘Thrilla’ commemoration
By Joaquin Henson, Sun, 31 Aug 2025Historic win for Paolo Gallito who edges Lee Van Cortez in the finals of the Efren "Bata" Reyes Yalin 10-Ball Championships
By Marlon Bernardino, Sun, 31 Aug 2025"The Return" Weights from Detroit
Sun, 31 Aug 2025Efren Reyes Yalin 10-Ball Tourney: Corteza Faces Villafuerte in Finals
By Marlon Bernardino, Sun, 31 Aug 2025Martha Salazar: Stepping Out of Her Own Shadow
By Emmanuel Rivera, RRT, Sat, 30 Aug 2025