Khabib Nurmagomedov, born on September 20, 1988, in Sildi, Dagestan ASSR, Russia, is a retired Russian professional mixed martial artist renowned for his dominance in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He is celebrated for his undefeated record of 29 wins and no losses, making him one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time.
Early life and background
Khabib was born into an Avar family and began wrestling from a young age under the tutelage of his father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, a decorated athlete and veteran. His early training included wrestling with bears, a testament to his rigorous and unconventional training methods. This foundation in wrestling was complemented by training in judo and combat sambo, disciplines in which he later achieved the rank of International Master of Sport.
Mixed martial arts career
Khabib made his professional MMA debut in 2008 and quickly amassed an impressive record in regional circuits. In 2012, he signed with the UFC, where he continued his winning streak. His grappling-centric fighting style, characterized by relentless pressure and superior ground control, overwhelmed opponents and endeared him to fans worldwide.
In April 2018, Khabib won the UFC Lightweight Championship, becoming the first Russian and the first Muslim to hold a UFC title. He successfully defended his title against high-profile fighters, including Conor McGregor in October 2018, Dustin Poirier in September 2019, and Justin Gaethje in October 2020. Following his victory over Gaethje, Khabib announced his retirement from professional MMA, fulfilling a promise made to his mother after the passing of his father.
Post-retirement endeavors
After retiring from competition, Khabib transitioned into coaching and promoting MMA. He founded Eagles MMA and the Eagle Fighting Championship (EFC), contributing to the development of the sport, particularly in Russia and the surrounding regions. In January 2023, he announced his departure from the sport entirely to focus on his family and other business ventures.
Net worth and financial ventures
As of 2025, Khabib Nurmagomedov’s net worth is estimated to be around $40 million. His earnings are primarily attributed to his successful fighting career, which includes substantial payouts from his championship bouts, particularly his fight against Conor McGregor, which was one of the highest-grossing events in UFC history.
Beyond his fight purses, Khabib has secured lucrative endorsement deals with brands such as Reebok, Toyota, Gorilla Energy, and SalamPay. He has also invested in various business ventures, including the promotion of the Eagle Fighting Championship, which he purchased to further his influence in the MMA world.
Personal life and interests
Khabib is known for his devout Islamic faith, which has been a guiding principle throughout his life and career. He is married and has three children. Despite his global fame, Khabib has remained closely connected to his roots in Dagestan, often expressing pride in his heritage and culture.
Philanthropy and community engagement
Khabib has been involved in various charitable endeavors, often focusing on supporting underprivileged communities in Dagestan and promoting sports among youth. His commitment to giving back has further endeared him to fans and followers worldwide.
Controversies and public perception
Throughout his career, Khabib has been involved in several controversies, including a post-fight brawl following his victory over Conor McGregor at UFC 229. Additionally, his affiliations with certain political figures have attracted criticism. Despite these controversies, his reputation as a formidable athlete remains largely intact.
Conclusion
Nurmagomedov’s journey from the mountains of Dagestan to global stardom in the UFC is a testament to his dedication, discipline, and unparalleled skill in mixed martial arts. His legacy continues to influence the sport, inspiring a new generation of fighters and fans alike.
