Khabib Nurmagomedov, affectionately known as “The Eagle,” is considered one of UFC’s top combatants. He retired last year without ever experiencing defeat in the octagon. However, what made Khabib remain so influential and dominant in his weight category, and why did he never move up a weight class? Let’s delve into all the details about the Eagle here.
Originating from Dagestan with a Russian heritage steeped in wrestling and martial arts, Khabib began his training at a very young age. His regimen included wrestling a bear when he was just 9 years old. He is a naturally talented athlete who honed his skills with discipline and showcased his prowess in the UFC with an impeccable 29-0-0 record.
Here’s everything you should know about Khabib Nurmagomedov and his MMA career:
What is Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Weight Category?
Khabib Nurmagomedov participated in the Lightweight (155lbs) division throughout his career. He initially signed a six-fight contract to compete in the UFC’s lightweight class in late 2011, defeating opponents such as Kamal Shalorus, Gleison Tibau, Thiago Tavares, Abel Trujillo, Pat Healy, and Gilbert Melendez.
Subsequently, Khabib triumphed over former UFC Lightweight Champion Rafael dos Anjos with an impressive performance. His unbeaten run in the UFC continued against fighters like Tony Ferguson, Michael Johnson, and Edson Barboza. During this period, he was long overdue for a title shot.
At UFC 223, Khabib Nurmagomedov faced Al Iaquinta and secured a remarkable victory through unanimous decision to become the UFC Lightweight Champion. He held the title until his retirement, becoming the longest-reigning UFC Lightweight Champion in history.
What was Khabib’s Weight Against McGregor?
Khabib Nurmagomedov also clashed with UFC star Conor McGregor for the Lightweight Championship at UFC 229. Khabib weighed approximately 155lbs for the bout, whereas McGregor weighed around 154.5lbs. On fight night, the Eagle took the first two rounds but conceded the third round to the Notorious.
This was the only occasion Khabib lost a round in his career. However, he quickly reversed the situation in the fourth round, submitting McGregor to clinch the win. Following the match, Khabib leaped over the Octagon intending to confront McGregor’s teammate Dillon Danis.
A brawl erupted between the two camps, involving various fighters like McGregor, Abubakar Nurmagomedov, Zubaira Tukhugov, and Esed Emiragaev, leading to turmoil. Consequently, the UFC conducted an investigation and imposed penalties on those involved.
Why Did Khabib “The Eagle” Never Change His Weight Category?
Khabib “The Eagle” Nurmagomedov usually maintained a walking weight of around 200lbs at a height of 1.78m, yet consistently competed in the lightweight division where the standard limit is 155lbs. He seldom fought in catchweight bouts around 160 lbs and never ventured into the welterweight or middleweight divisions.
There’s a belief that this was due to Khabib’s camaraderie with then-welterweight champion Kamaru Usman. However, this is incorrect as confirmed by American promoter and MMA analyst Chael Sonnen. Sonnen also stated that Khabib did not ascend weight classes because he was an astute fighter who understood his strengths and limitations.
According to Sonnen, Khabib was aware that his discipline and conviction would allow him to dominate the lightweight division. This proved accurate as Khabib retired with an unbeaten streak, winning 13 consecutive bouts in the UFC during the peak of his career.
Khabib Nurmagomedov Stats & Career Record:
Here is an overview of Khabib “The Eagle” Nurmagomedov’s UFC career statistics:
- Record: 29-0-0
- Wins by KO/Submission: 19
- Born: September 20, 1988
- Age: 35 years
- Stance: Orthodox
- Reach: 70 inches
- Height: 5-foot-10
- Current weight: 205 lbs
Khabib began his training early, following the custom in Dagestan. His father converted the ground floor of their two-story house into a gym where Khabib spent much of his childhood. He made his professional MMA debut in September 2008, winning four fights within his first month.
The following month, Khabib became the inaugural Atrium Cup tournament champion, subsequently securing victories in all of his seven fights for the ProFC promotion through TKO or submission. Later on, Khabib clinched
a perfect 16-0 slate in regional MMA events across Russia and Ukraine, which ultimately secured him a contract with the UFC.
Nicknamed “The Eagle,” he eventually became the longest-reigning UFC Lightweight Champion and hung up his gloves with an unparalleled 29-0 record. He is frequently acknowledged as one of the greatest MMA fighters ever. On June 30, 2022, Khabib was honored by being inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame.
Khabib’s Fighting Style in the Lightweight Division:
Khabib’s initial coach was his father, a distinguished athlete and Soviet Army veteran, who trained him in wrestling, judo, and combat sambo. Despite being involved in street altercations during his youth, he shifted his focus to MMA, inspired by figures like his father Abdulmanapovich, Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, and football legend Ronaldo Nazário.
In the UFC lightweight category, Khabib Nurmagomedov employs a wrestling-centric strategy to exert relentless pressure on his competitors. To put it simply, The Eagle often ‘overpowers’ his adversaries using various wrestling, judo, and sambo takedowns, pinning them against the cage and locking them with his limbs to foil any escape attempts.
Once he has worn them down with his weight, he delivers calculated strikes that are seldom blocked. Consequently, many of Khabib’s victories come via TKO/KO or submission. He is considered one of the most formidable lightweight fighters globally.
Frequently Answered Questions:
In which weight class did Khabib compete?:
Khabib Nurmagomedov, also known as The Eagle, competed in the UFC’s 155-pound lightweight division throughout his career. At the time of his retirement, he was ranked as the #1 lightweight in the UFC men’s pound-for-pound rankings and maintained an unblemished 29-0-0 record in the promotion.
What was Khabib’s fighting weight?:
While Khabib generally weighed around 200lbs, he competed in the 155lbs lightweight category through rigorous discipline and skillful weight management. He consistently met the required weight during official weigh-ins and seldom fought in catchweight bouts, which never exceeded 160lbs.
Did Khabib ever experience a loss?:
No, Khabib never tasted defeat in the UFC. He concluded his career with a flawless 29-0-0 record, showcasing his prowess as a professional MMA competitor. Even before his UFC tenure, Khabib had a pristine 16-0 record in the regional circuits of Russia and Ukraine.
Why did Khabib step away from MMA?:
Khabib retired from professional wrestling to dedicate more time to his family. Following his father Abdulmanapovich’s passing, his mother requested that he withdraw from the sport due to various health concerns. Respecting her wishes, Khabib retired from MMA and took on a coaching role, which he eventually left, distancing himself entirely from the industry.