Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Khabib Nurmagomedov

How Khabib Nurmagomedov built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Khabib Nurmagomedov is a retired Russian mixed martial artist, renowned for his undefeated 29-0 record. He reigned as the UFC Lightweight Champion from April 2018 to March 2021, marking the longest title reign in the division's history. Widely regarded as one of the greatest MMA fighters ever, Nurmagomedov was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2022.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

September 2008: Professional MMA Debut

In September 2008, Khabib Nurmagomedov made his professional MMA debut and compiled four wins in under a month.

2011: Signed with UFC

In 2011, Khabib Nurmagomedov signed a six-fight deal to compete in the UFC's lightweight division.

January 2012: UFC Debut

On January 2012, Khabib Nurmagomedov made his UFC debut at UFC on FX 1, defeating Kamal Shalorus via submission in the third round.

July 2012: Defeated Gleison Tibau at UFC 148

On July 2012, Khabib Nurmagomedov defeated Gleison Tibau at UFC 148 via unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring the fight 30–27.

January 2013: Defeated Thiago Tavares at UFC on FX 7

On January 2013, Khabib Nurmagomedov defeated Thiago Tavares at UFC on FX 7 via KO in the first round.

May 2013: Defeated Abel Trujillo at UFC 160

On May 2013, Khabib Nurmagomedov defeated Abel Trujillo at UFC 160 via unanimous decision. He also set a UFC record for the most takedowns in a single fight, with 21 successful takedowns.

September 2013: Defeated Pat Healy at UFC 165

On September 2013, Khabib Nurmagomedov faced Pat Healy at UFC 165 and won via unanimous decision. UFC president Dana White praised Nurmagomedov's performance at the post-event press conference.

April 2014: Defeated Rafael dos Anjos at UFC on Fox 11

On April 2014, Khabib Nurmagomedov faced Rafael dos Anjos at UFC on Fox 11 and won via unanimous decision.

April 2016: Defeated Darrell Horcher at UFC on Fox 19

On April 2016, Khabib Nurmagomedov won against promotional newcomer Darrell Horcher by TKO in the second round at UFC on Fox 19.

November 2016: Defeated Michael Johnson at UFC 205

On November 2016, Khabib Nurmagomedov faced Michael Johnson at UFC 205, dominating the fight and winning via submission in the third round.

December 2017: Defeated Edson Barboza at UFC 219

On December 2017, Khabib Nurmagomedov faced Edson Barboza at UFC 219, dominating the fight and winning by unanimous decision, earning a Performance of the Night bonus.

April 2018: UFC Lightweight Champion

In April 2018, Khabib Nurmagomedov became the UFC Lightweight Champion, marking a significant career milestone.

April 2018: Won UFC Lightweight Championship at UFC 223

On April 2018, Khabib Nurmagomedov won the vacant UFC Lightweight Championship at UFC 223 by defeating Al Iaquinta via unanimous decision.

August 2018: Announced First Title Defence Against Conor McGregor

On August 2018, the UFC announced that Khabib Nurmagomedov would make his first defence of his lightweight title against Conor McGregor at UFC 229 on October 6 in Las Vegas.