Khabib Nurmagomedov

Dominant Dagestani wrestler who retired undefeated after submitting Justin Gaethje in 2020, confirming his legendary record.

Khabib Abdulmanapovich Nurmagomedov was born on 20 September 1988 in Sildi, Dagestan, in the Soviet Union, the son of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, a decorated Soviet Army veteran and combat sports coach who dedicated his life to training Dagestani youth as an alternative to Islamic extremism in the region. The family moved to Makhachkala in 2001, where Khabib trained in wrestling from 12 and judo from 15 under his father's guidance. Nurmagomedov, nicknamed "The Eagle," turned professional in 2008 and became one of the most dominant fighters in UFC history, winning the UFC Lightweight Championship in 2018 and retiring in 2020 with a perfect professional record of 29 wins and no losses. Nurmagomedov's suffocating Combat Sambo-based wrestling made him nearly impossible to defeat, and his rivalry with Conor McGregor, culminating in a 2018 title fight and its chaotic aftermath, became one of the most-watched events in UFC history. Nurmagomedov retired as undefeated champion following the death of his father in 2020, and has since become a prominent trainer and promoter, continuing to mentor a new generation of Dagestani fighters through his Eagles MMA team.

Khabib was renowned for his dominant wrestling and grappling skills, utilizing relentless pressure and superior ground control. His signature technique involved taking opponents down and maintaining top position while delivering ground-and-pound strikes. He possessed exceptional cardio and mental toughness, often overwhelming opponents with his pace and physical strength.

Khabib is widely regarded as one of the greatest lightweight fighters in MMA history and helped elevate the profile of Dagestani fighters in the sport. His undefeated record and dominant performances established a new standard for lightweight competition.

• UFC Lightweight Champion 2018-2021