In 2020, UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov sent shockwaves through the MMA world when he announced his retirement from the Octagon at the age of 32.
This came after defeating Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 and maintaining a perfect 29-0 record, an unprecedented feat in MMA. Since his departure, speculation has swirled about the reasons behind Nurmagomedov’s decision to step away at the peak of his career.
Recent hints from Khabib Nurmagomedov, including potential financial struggles due to tax issues in his home country, have fueled speculation among MMA experts about a possible return from retirement.
Khabib Nurmagomedov ’s retirement reason exposed by UFC insider
The reasons behind Khabib Nurmagomedov’s retirement have remained shrouded in mystery for years. Speculations have focused on various factors, including potential financial concerns and taking over his gym following his father’s death.
Now, former UFC contender Chael Sonnen offers a different perspective on fighters’ retirement motivation. “Fighters retire for a reason, they’re done making weight,” Sonnen explains. “They say they’re done making weight. So, I remind you of that because what if Khabib was coming back? And that’s where I get into the lesson part of it. What if Khabib was coming back? What if everything that I’m telling you is true?” Sonnen’s theory gains some traction considering Khabib’s reported rejection of a hefty $40 million offer to return to fighting.
Sonnen further throws another theory into the mix, suggesting Khabib Nurmagomedov, also known as “The Eagle” might be planning a comeback. Sonnen claims Khabib’s team is behind the potential return, with a possible showdown against none other than his arch-rival, Conor McGregor. McGregor. Interestingly, McGregor himself is rumored to be gearing up for a fight with Michael Chandler, despite his own recent hiatus from Octagon.
While Khabib Nurmagomedov’s return seems unlikely in the immediate future, speculation continues to swirl. He’s currently focused on other ventures and reportedly facing financial and tax issues in his home country. However, former UFC champ Michael Bisping believes any potential punishment for the alleged tax problems is unlikely.
Bisping doubts Khabib will face punishment for tax fraud
A bombshell report from the Russian outlet ‘Mash’ surfaced last month, alleging Khabib Nurmagomedov owed a significant sun, roughly $3.3 million in unpaid taxes. The investigation reportedly uncovered discrepancies and insufficient documentation in Khabib’s business dealings, encompassing his gym charitable organizations.
Former UFC champ Michael Bisping offered his take on Khabib’s tax situation. Bisping speculated on the “Believe You Me’ podcast that Khabib’s close ties to the Russian government might ease his tax troubles. However, Bisping’s remarks were laced with Skepticism, suggesting a potential lack of transparency in Russia’s handling of such matters. he stated, “Khabib has been representing Russia on the world stage for a long time. And Russia, like every bloody government, is crooked as hell, and Russia is right up there with the best. but I would think that with Khabib being one of the…”
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s future remains shrouded in mystery. With his recent tax issues and focus on other ventures, will he return to the Octagon to settle his obligations? A comeback fight, especially against Conor McGregor, could generate massive pay-per-view sales and potentially solve his financial problems. What do you think/ Will Khabib return for one last fight?