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 Russian former professional mixed martial artist, renowned for his undefeated record of 29-0. He held the UFC Lightweight Championship from April 2018 to March 2021, marking the longest reign in that division's history. Widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists ever, Nurmagomedov was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2022. His dominance and unblemished record have solidified his legacy in the sport.

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, marking the beginning of his career in mixed martial arts.

April 2014: Victory Against Rafael dos Anjos

On April 19, 2014, at UFC on Fox 11, Khabib Nurmagomedov defeated Rafael dos Anjos via unanimous decision, dominating the fight.

April 2016: Win Against Darrell Horcher

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

November 2016: Dominant Win Against Michael Johnson

On November 12, 2016, at UFC 205, Khabib Nurmagomedov dominated the fight against Michael Johnson, winning via submission in the third round.

December 2017: Victory Over Edson Barboza

On December 30, 2017, at UFC 219, Khabib Nurmagomedov defeated Edson Barboza 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.

August 2018: Lightweight Title Defence Against Conor McGregor

On August 3, 2018, the UFC announced that Khabib Nurmagomedov would make his first defence of his lightweight title against Conor McGregor at UFC 229.

June 2019: New UFC Contract

In June 2019, Khabib Nurmagomedov signed a new multi-fight contract with the UFC, securing his future with the organization.

July 2019: Eligibility to Compete

Khabib Nurmagomedov became eligible to compete again on July 6, 2019, after serving his nine-month suspension from the NSAC.

September 2019: Victory Over Dustin Poirier

On September 7, 2019, at UFC 242, Khabib Nurmagomedov defeated Dustin Poirier via submission, unifying the lightweight titles and earning his second Performance of the Night bonus.

April 2020: UFC 249 Fight Cancellation

In April 2020, Khabib Nurmagomedov was unable to defend his title against Tony Ferguson at UFC 249 due to restricted air travel from Russia caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Ferguson instead fought Justin Gaethje for the interim title.

October 2020: Transition to Coaching

After retiring in October 2020, Khabib Nurmagomedov began coaching fighters with Javier Mendez at American Kickboxing Academy.

October 2020: Victory over Gaethje and Retirement Announcement

On October 24, 2020, Khabib Nurmagomedov defeated Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 to unify the UFC Lightweight Championship. Following the win, he announced his retirement from MMA, fulfilling a promise to his mother after his father's passing.

March 2021: Removal from UFC Rankings

Following his title vacation in March 2021, Khabib Nurmagomedov was removed from the UFC men's pound-for-pound rankings, ending his run as the #1 ranked fighter.

March 2021: End of Reign as UFC Lightweight Champion

In March 2021, Khabib Nurmagomedov's reign as the UFC Lightweight Champion ended, concluding his time holding the title, he retired undefeated.

March 2021: UFC Officially Accepts Retirement

On March 19, 2021, UFC president Dana White officially accepted Khabib Nurmagomedov's retirement decision, and the UFC Lightweight Championship was vacated.

January 2023: Complete Retirement From MMA

In January 2023, Khabib Nurmagomedov completely retired from MMA, including coaching and cornering, to focus on his family.

January 2023: Retirement from MMA Coaching

In January 2023, Khabib Nurmagomedov retired completely from the sport, ending his time as a full-time coach and cornerman after previously retiring as a fighter.